Slides and fingering

[tom5string]

Hi, you experts,

a beginners question:
When i perform a slide (e.g. from e to f on the D-String) which finger to use? (using 1-2-4 fingering)
I could either use 2 or 4 - meaning either finger of the originating note or the target note.
I found that in both cases, i'm losing intonation due to changed handposition. So, what is the common sense?

Thanks a lot,

Tom

[Burg]

It depends where your next note is. For example, if you're sliding from the E to the F on the D-string and then want to play F on the E, then you don't want to be sliding with your index finger, you need that free to play the low F. Your middle finger would be better. But if you want to then play G on the D-string, your index finger would be fine.

Really, you should be able to play a slide with each finger on your left hand, this will give the most flexible technique. If you are having trouble keeping the note ringing as you slide then you just need to press down a little harder and get used to maintianing the pressure as you slide. Try slowing down a little and practicing sliding up and down the technique with slow slides making sure you keep the string properly fretted as you slide.


Hope this helps.

[warenut]

Try this.

Pick a note, say "C" on the G string. Grab it with your 4th finger. Then, playing slow whole notes, switch to your 2nd, then your first, etc., trying to maintain your intonation.

Also, ala Mark Helias, try playing scales using just one finger (on one string, SLOWLY), again alternating fingers.

Good luck!

[tom5string]

Thanks for your suggestions, i'll try to improve at this point. For me it is a bit of a challenge to start with an upright after 25 years of BassGuitar - i just have to cope with the fact that i'm not even able to play a minor third on one string without moving the hand ...

warenut, you're right, i should concentrate on correct intonation in every possible position.
And Burg, correct - i didn't mention the musical context of the slide which - of course - is important for the fingering.

So, thanks.

Tom

[hdiddy]

Instead of going to a web forum for such an important beginning concept, I think you need to get a teacher to answer this question. The way I was taught, the finger you used during the slide depended on where you're ending up - and that should always end up on the pinky. Still tho - get a teacher. They'll be able to show what you should do, and why, with less chances of making a mistake in understanding why.