What Do You Consider Great Left Hand Technique? Classical & Jazz

[jgbass]

I am really trying to get a perspective on correct left hand technique and would appreciate some input. I have studied a lot of Simandl and a lot of Rabbath techniques, including the George Vance books. I am trying to correct my intonation problems and am making progress.

I thought my technique was basically OK until I was studying with a teacher who was adament about several things which I am having difficulty maintaining. These things have helped my intonation, but I feel like my hand is in a straightjacket and they are extremely difficult for me to obtain. This teacher maintains that this is the only way to play correct I am willing to do what it takes, but shouldn't things feel natural when playing bass? This sure does not.

These include: (1) always keeping the hand stretched a whole step with space between the 1st and 2nd finger; (2) if playing past half position, always keeping all the other fingers down, i.e. if playing F# on the D string, then fingers 1 and 2 have to be down; (3) avoiding the use of any pivoting going up the fingerboard. I frame this as avoiding because I have had some instruction in Rabbath, but also have had my share of anti-Rabbath folks who think his techniques are a detriment to intonation.

What is the consensus of correct left hand technique? Is it as described above? I think there have been too many teachers in a short time due to relocating and having both jazz and classical teachers at the same time. They have all been helpful but I am somewhat confused these days and I need to get consistent with my playing, back up and get these basics correct. for me. Thanks.

[damonsmith]

Well, it is in the jazz section, I think pivots and such are dangerous when combined with a big Pizz sound. I also think we all need to be aware of this technique and use it when it is called for.
Keeping the hand in position is a good idea and it does work. The people who argue against it are virtuoso classical players who could probably find the notes with any system they pick.
I think for any kind of improvised music holding your position will help because the music can change at any second and the line you are "Hearing" is not valid so a good position can help in the few seconds you are changing direction.
I hold my position and it feels very natural, so give it some time.
Even if you decide against it, it is something you should be able to do.

[adbass]

Originally Posted by jgbass

These include: (1) always keeping the hand stretched a whole step with space between the 1st and 2nd finger; (2) if playing past half position, always keeping all the other fingers down, i.e. if playing F# on the D string, then fingers 1 and 2 have to be down; (3) avoiding the use of any pivoting going up the fingerboard.

What is the consensus of correct left hand technique? Is it as described above?

Yes. Sounds EXACTLY right to me (playing 15yrs). However, the "strait jacket" comment is worrisome; you gotta keep things relaxed otherwise you may cause injury. If this is a new approach, just ease into it. Take things slow, remember to breathe and keep the fingers poised like little machine heads, with the hand and arm relaxed. Elbow up, support with your back.

[jgbass]

Thanks guys. I am hard put to understand my confusion on this. This has got to be the most successful way to play and it is the suggestion of my current teachers.

The straightjacket thing has to do, I think, with adjustments I have needed to make in where I place my thumb back on the fingerboard, but I am getting that too, and that leads to mroe flexibility.

[pmckee]

George Mraz.

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