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Need help muting a played string

Discussion in 'Technique [BG]' started by sync00, Dec 2, 2005.

  1. Dec 2, 2005 #1
    sync00

    sync00

    Nov 23, 2005
    I'm using the Hal Leonard Bass Method. It says 'As you alternate fingers, place each finger down for the next stroke just slightly ahead of time, to mute the previous note. This will give you a more controlled bass sound'.

    When I mute the notes I get a ringing harmonic (at least I think that's what it is) that doesn't sound good.

    How can I mute in a way that doesn't create this harmonic?
     
  2. Dec 2, 2005 #2
    Low E Louie

    Low E Louie

    Jan 5, 2004
    Stockholm, Sweden
    You only get harmonics at certain spots on the string. I play on the strings on or near the pickup that is closer to the neck. My bass has two pickups. Do you play over a pickup and you get these harmonics?

    But... I think you have to land your finger firmer on the string to mute it better if you are going to follow this method.
     
  3. Dec 2, 2005 #3
    sync00

    sync00

    Nov 23, 2005
    I'm playing over the neck pickup.

    I tried pressing the string firmer but I guess I need to work on that some more.
     
  4. Dec 2, 2005 #4
    sync00

    sync00

    Nov 23, 2005
    Is there another method to consider?
     
  5. Dec 2, 2005 #5
    Low E Louie

    Low E Louie

    Jan 5, 2004
    Stockholm, Sweden
    Yes, you can also lift the finger on your fretting hand slightly, or maybe it's best to combine the two. I really don't have the problem of creating harmonics you speak of. Try putting the fleshy part of your finger tip to the string
     
  6. Dec 4, 2005 #6
    Skeletomania

    Skeletomania

    Oct 25, 2005
    hong kong
    I found the tip the book is talking about. It's mentioning about the plucking hand, not so much as the fretting hand.Try gently laying 1 or more fingers onto the string you want to mute.