Getting a good sound using just one finger

DBeauregard

DBeauregard

Jan 22, 2013
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#1
Recently, I've wanted to focus on using my first finger exclusively to develop a more uniform sound unless I'm soloing. I know this is a fairly common way to play the bass. The problem I'm having is that occasionally, I find my right wrist getting a little sore. I'm wondering if that is just because my muscles are used to alternating my first and middle finger as I walk or play a two feel, or is it because I'm using my wrist too much to pull the string rather than my arm and shoulder.

If you've got any advice or exercises I'd love to hear them.
 
#2
Playing with the first finger technique is a classic way to play. There are many variations on the technique, but I am drawn to the way Sam Jones, Charles Mingus, Ray Brown, and Rufus Reid do it. They Do Not have as much wrist motion. I call that excess wrist motion "motorcycle" because it is like revving the throttle on a bike. Mashing your wrist with every stroke can be painful for some. Note: there are some fine players who advocate that way too.
I call the way Sam and Mingus do it "The Wave". The hand is relaxed and open and in a natural state as your hand would be just hanging down with your arm at your side. Notice in the following videos that the palm is not facing the fingerboard and the fingers are not flat against the board. The palm is open, facing sideways and the fingers are almost side by side moving out from the fingerboard, not across it. Notice how far down the fingerboard they play. This gives a great "front" to the note. Notice they both have great facility with this technique.
Sam Jones with Oscar Peterson and Bobby Durham complete concert:
 
#3
Great, thanks so much. Both Sam Jones and Mingus are two of my favorite players. I was resting my second finger on top of my first, which could also be part of the problem. I'll try to relax and do "the wave."
 
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