Thumbing the E string?

[wiscoaster]

The thread asking about where we pluck our strings got me to thinking about me needing something for my thumb to rest on when I pluck the E string. I learned the two-finger plucking technique and that's all I know how to use, so far. I've only been playing for a couple years. I'm wondering what you more advanced players think of me trying to learn to pluck the E string with my thumb, and the other strings with index and middle fingers? Then I don't need a support for my thumb to pluck the E string. Index finger could rest on the A string to mute it when thumbing E. Call it a "three-finger" technique, I suppose. Makes sense or too complicated? Thanks....

 

[2112]

Recently I've managed to overcome the need to anchor my right thumb. So, every once in awhile, I'll pluck a string with it. But I'm not anchoring another finger when doing so, so I don't run into issues when switching between strings. My first take is that playing with an anchored index finger might make it cumbersome to transition to higher strings.

 

[Killing Floor]

There’s no wrong way to play despite some responses you’ll get.
If you need to anchor try hanging your wrist over the body? Or use your thumb like Leo envisioned? A lot of players work through this. Find what works best for you.

 

[SteveCS]

Why not? Check the first minute or so of this:

 

[FatStringer52]

 

[wiscoaster]

....My first take is that playing with an anchored index finger might make it cumbersome to transition to higher strings.

That's a good point. I'd have to develop a whole new level of fingering coordination. Thinking it over, it wouldn't be necessary anyway because moving the thumb across the E string and allowing it to contact the A string post-plucking is going to mute the A string naturally, no?

 

[AGCurry]

There are myriad ways to make sound from your instrument, and they are all correct when done intentionally and competently.

The issue I have always had with thumbing one string while fingering others is a discrepancy in response/volume. It's not insurmountable, but it takes practice.

 

[WI Short Scaler]

I found a spot to anchor my thumb along the guard that's worked for me. When I get to playing the E string my hand is tipped back enough this way to not interfere with the string. I've recently covered both of these spots with some clear epoxy to prevent further wear/tear in this spot.