Shifting Exercises for Bass
Photo by Penn State News
Sometimes, just for fun, I like to work on the short shifting exercise below. It helps me measure my accuracy, ensure I am light during the shift, and that I am using minimum pressure with my fingers, all while keeping my shifting fluid. It’s short, fun and challenging.
Keep the following things in mind:
- Play with the bow, this trains the left hand best
- Shift quickly and lightly
- Make the shifts as inaudible as possible
- When you are really comfortable, do it on every note of a scale!
Without further ado:
Dr. Donovan Stokes is on the faculty of Shenandoah University-Conservatory. Visit him online at www.donovanstokes.com and check out the Bass Coalition at www.basscoalition.com.
