This bass lesson will cover picking vs. fingerstyle. Knowing both how to play bass fingerstyle and with a pick will come in handy many times. Here’s a quick lesson on each method:
How to Play Bass With a Pick
Here are some tips if you decide to play bass using a pick:
- Don’t use a guitar pick! They tend to be too flimsy for efficient picking. Get a thicker pick to help you be more accurate with your picking.
- Holding a pick the right way is essential! You want it to appear like the tip is coming out of the side of your thumb (see the picture). As you practice, holding your pick will feel more natural.
- Make sure to alternate your picking.
- Resting your hand on the edge of the guitar will help you stabilize your pick for faster playing!
How to Play Bass Fingerstyle
Here are some tips on fingerstyle bass technique:
- Alternate between your ring and middle finer – always! The pattern should be a constant ring-middle-ring-middle.
- Your thumb can rest on the top of the pickup, or the low E string (but you’ll have to get in the habit of moving it when playing the low E, obviously).
- With practice, your fingers will get stronger and quicker.
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