Talking Technique: One Finger Per Fret In The Lower Register
The lower frets on the bass are arguably the ones we use the most, but they’re also the largest frets. That makes it difficult for us to apply our “one finger per fret” rule in the lower register. So how can we overcome this physical obstacle?
We’ll go over some exercises to get your fingers in shape for the low end. Today’s tip is a challenge that might surprise you!
Austrian-gone-Californian Ariane Cap is a bassist, educator, blogger and author. In her book Music Theory for the Bass Player and corresponding 20-week online course, she teaches music theory, bass technique, bass line creation and fretboard fitness in a systematic, practical and experiential way. She just released a brand new course on ear training for the bass player: Ear Confidence - 6 Paths to Fearless Ears. Contact her via her blog or website.
Lighter strings?
Stan, maybe a little influence, but I don’t like to compromise on tone and I usually like heavier gauges for grooving. I think much more important are good technique (positioning of the bass, hands, elbow, using only the muscles needed and relaxing the others etc) and a good set up. I have seen basses where thinner strings were actually harder on my hand in the lower registers than much heavier strings.