A Faster Way to Play Octaves: The Thumb and Index String Crossing Technique

If you’ve ever tried playing a fast disco-style octave groove using the standard alternating plucking technique with your index and middle fingers, you’ll be familiar with the challenge this presents. Crossing strings at high speeds often results in clunky transitions or hand fatigue.

I once saw a video by Remco Hendriks in which he played with a level of fluidity I had never seen before, using a combination of his thumb and index finger. His style is totally unique, creating lush layers of sound with a funky aggressiveness and groove. I wanted to try it on my own grooves. 

Bass Technique: Thumb & Index

Instead of moving your fingers along the strings, use a combination of your thumb and index finger as follows:

1. The thumb (T) handles the lower root note, which is usually on the E or A string. 
2. The index finger (I): Plucks the higher octave or interval (usually on the D or G string).

However, you can use the thumb and index finger on the same string, just as you would with the classic rest stroke.

A huge advantage of this technique is that your hand stays in a compact, ergonomic position. Since each finger is dedicated to its own string, the “travel time” required for a single finger to jump back and forth across the strings is eliminated.

If you want to take your right-hand technique to the next level, check out Gary Willis’s method, in which each finger is dedicated to a particular string, meaning there are zero jumps between strings and the fingers are already in a plucking position (as in classical flamenco fingerstyle). 

This isn’t just for octaves! It’s a game-changer for 10ths (major/minor thirds an octave up), enabling you to play chords and melodies with fluid, piano-like clarity.

Once you have mastered the coordination between your thumb and index finger, those blistering funk lines and wide-interval jumps will feel like a breeze.

Download the transcription and follow along with the video below.