How should my plucking arm be resting on the bass? I’ve noticed that the side of my forearm rests on the body of the bass instead of the bottom of the forearm because it makes it so that I have to bend my wrist less. However, this leads me to kind of pluck at an angle. My hand leans towards the bridge and my fingers aren’t perfectly perpendicular to the strings. Is this a bad habit to pick up? If so, how do I get my fingers perpendicular without bending my wrist into oblivion?
Not really! Your hand doesn’t have to be perpendicular to the strings. Soon you’ll find out you’ll want to be right over the strings too. that would promote a different tone.
You can always try the Gary Willis method. If I can go back and do it again I’d do it this way.
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Totally agree with Al1885, just pick a comfortable angle that allows you to play. Standing up can get you closer to perpendicular and sitting down changes the angle a bit at least for me, don’t stress trying to find the best angles. Playing is more comfortable and easier the more relaxed you are, as long as you can pull across the strings you’re good.
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I angle my fingers some to avoid catching the strings with my fingernails that are longer than most bass players nails since I use them when I play guitar and banjo.
If the angle works for you, and doesn’t cause pain, go for it. Watch bass players performing on stage and you’ll see many variations.
Never seen this before, really cool!
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As your index and middle fingers probably aren’t the same length, angling them such that your plucking fingers point slightly towards the bridge helps to more or less even them out. It’s a good thing.