Dodgy thumb position vibrato

[Grottessini]

Hi,

I've been playing for a while now to a pretty high level, and have always been rather pleased with the control I have on my lower vibrato movement, but as soon as I get beyond E or F on the G string (and into higher thumb postion) it all goes to ****. I've tried the old metronome thing, which I truly believe is dangerous as it seems to try to manufacture what should simply be an organic,simple muscle movement. I've got long enough arms, but never seem to be able to position my knuckles parallel enough to the string. The most effective technique seems to be the 'teethering on the edge of the cliff' flailing one finger style, and only this is any good for a few minutes; then the muscles seem to lock. I watch those cats like Gary Karr etc and they seem to have this effortless rocking movement which just seems damn uncomfortable... I can otherwise get round the beast pretty well. Anyone else feeling my pain?

[sibass89]

I had some trouble with thumb position vibrato and mine is starting to come along now but it is far from great. I found that if you apply your weight through the one finger that is being played, just place whatever other fingers are behind sitting on the string, and always keep your thumb on the string, it keeps a good compact hand positoin. Then, I swing my entire forearm which creates a movement of my finger going below the pitch then back to pitch.

This is very hard to describe with words and not show somebody but I did my best.

Good luck,
Nick