So I’ve noticed something when I’m chugging on a single string, that doesn’t happen when I’m string crossing or going slower.
Basically, I can’t find a non-awkward way to keep my ring finger and pinky from interfering. I end up holding them kind of weirdly and stiffly which leads to some cramping and discomfort.
Anyone have any neat tips on what to do with my “extra” fingers?
Probably need to learn to relax that hand. If you’re consciously holding fingers in a particular position you’re definitely going to have tension in that hand.
“Relax and stop overthinking this” is proving to be one of my main lessons.
I’m working on relaxing my fretting hand and too much thumb pressure. Not easy for sure.
So…do you play sitting down or standing? It might come down to how those fingers are oriented to the strings. Hopefully this makes sense but if the neck of your bass is held higher (less parallel to the floor,) your first two fingers would be more prominent and the two offenders would be less in the way? Just a suggestion beyond “it will come in time,” which is true.
Side note…I play finger style in lessons, BassBuzz, some jams, Jamerson type stuff…but I actually prefer to play with a pick. Years ago my friends gave me crap for always keeping my other fingers “loose.” Picture the “OK” sign and that’s how I held the pick. So to remedy that I put a rubber band around the loose fingers and eventually they learned to stay together. Weird stuff works.
I usually play standing as I do like more of an angle on the neck and also can’t help dancing around a bit. But I think I’m really overthinking my right hand. You’re right that it will probably come in time. I love the rubber band story. Innovation!