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Why not using 3 finger?
- Thread starter bass9454
- Start date
Are you talking about the ring finger on the left hand? This finger is used, but in combination with the pinkie. The mensure on a double bass is large enough that very few people can support a 1/2 step spacing between all fingers in the lower positions in a 3/4 bass and still apply sufficient force to stop the string. The 1-2-4 compromise puts the two weakest fingers together and allows the hand to remain relaxed. Supposedly Dragonetti could, but I'm not going to start comparing myself to that guy. Nope.
Who says double bass players don't use the third finger?! It is a common technique in many methods, excluding Simandl. Those who grew up on the limited Simandl method, your's truly included, may think that the possibility of third finger use is somehow "wrong" or definitely not "correct." As I have said in countless threads previous to this one, use any fingering you need to/want to that is appropriate for your physique, your bass, and the music (especially with regard to the rhythm of the music). Use your chin too, if the music warrants it (I have many times).
One of the coolest use of third, is when you have a 1/2 step then a whole step, (like on g string in third position (Rabbath): f, e, d) finger it 4, 3, 1. Or on g string again in 1st position: A, B, C. fingered 1, 3, 4. The whole step then half step is very fast with this fingering and usually more in tune. In 1st position it requires NOT a STRETCH of the hand but a PIVOT. See my threads on PIVOTs and pivoting.
Finally, beware of absolutes about anything regarding bass playing. Techniques have been radically challenged and are changing all the time. A personal approach, considering physique, bass, music style, audience, and even venue can make huge impact on one's choice of fingerings.
BTW, some of my vids on YouTube show use of many fingering styles. Channel is "PNeher"
Best to you!
Patrick
One of the coolest use of third, is when you have a 1/2 step then a whole step, (like on g string in third position (Rabbath): f, e, d) finger it 4, 3, 1. Or on g string again in 1st position: A, B, C. fingered 1, 3, 4. The whole step then half step is very fast with this fingering and usually more in tune. In 1st position it requires NOT a STRETCH of the hand but a PIVOT. See my threads on PIVOTs and pivoting.
Finally, beware of absolutes about anything regarding bass playing. Techniques have been radically challenged and are changing all the time. A personal approach, considering physique, bass, music style, audience, and even venue can make huge impact on one's choice of fingerings.
BTW, some of my vids on YouTube show use of many fingering styles. Channel is "PNeher"
Best to you!
Patrick
