Using middle finger predominantly for finger-style?

[ezstep]

I was told once that someone noticed that I alternate index and middle fingers each and every note. Even a "slow song" did not cause me to pluck with the same finger over and over.

I had never noticed. Still don't pay attention to it.

 

[juancaminos]

I used a felt pick for most of my Bass playing life. In the last few years have used my fingers more and more. Currently up to maybe 40% of the time. I've noticed that my middle finger is much stronger and way more coordinated. Since I went back to fretless I have really been trying hard to get my index finger more involved. I know how you feel!

 

[MYLOWFREQ]

It doesn't matter. As long as your middle and index finger are doing the job together you're good. You can start with either. When you're playing with both your index and middle finger, they should sound the same so it shouldn't matter which finger you're staring with.

 

[nnnnnn]

I find myself mostly leading with my middle finger

Assuming the concept of always or mostly leading with the same finger is acceptable at all I can't think of any reasons why it would matter which finger.

 

[mikewalker]

 

[Eddie LeBlanc]

View attachment 3725215

I usually use 1st & 2nd, sometimes 3rd. Don't really have a clue what to lead with. It just happens naturally.

If I am using the 2nd only, it is typically the same way the man in Black is using it. But does make a statement.

 

[Rip Van Dan]

Same as most of the folks have said, it doesn't matter which one you use first. I usually start with my middle finger and use my index whenever I need to. I usually alternate them but I don't necessarily do it every time...just most of the time. Question is, "are you playing the part correctly and in the right time?" If so, then you're fine.

 

[Stumbo]

...I've developed a habit of using my middle finger rather than my index finger...I find myself mostly leading with my middle finger...

Said the proctological bassist.

 

[Fergie Fulton]

For whatever reason, I've developed a habit of using my middle finger rather than my index finger for fingerstyle plucking. I still alternate index-middle fingers for faster plucking, but I find myself mostly leading with my middle finger.

Is there any reason this should be a problem? I feel I get a better tone from the softer pad on my middle finger, and it's stronger.

Nope you are fine. the physical use is the same, all you are doing is "thinking" where the '1' is. or any other beat for that matter...the fingers do not care in what order you use them...but you brain may feel different about that when applying a numbered beat to the motion.