[kjgam1]

Hi
Just another questions similar to a previous post about the use of the thumb when finger picking. I am much more comfortable using my bare thumb and not a thumb pick. I feel really clumsy with any kind of finger pick on-I'm much slower, they get stuck in the strings, etc. However, the problem I have is 2 string blues shuffle patterns and slide combinations, say for instance Dust My Broom. I can't play the shuffle part without a pick-the type you hold between your thumb and index finger-a plectrum. I just can't get into those two strings or get much sound with just a thumb. The problem comes when, after I've played the shuffle part and go up the neck to the 12th fret for the slide piece, I have to pluck the low E at the same time as sliding the treble notes. The only thing I can do is put the plectrum in my mouth for this part and use my bare thumb and when I'm finished grab the pick again and play the next shuffle part. This is of course ridiculous because the time lapse between putting the plectrum between my teeth and taking it out again is far too great and ruins the flow of the song. The problem again emerges during the resolution of the song when I have to use thumb and fingers on the base and treble strings and then finish up with the slide, so it involves the plectrum going between the teeth and coming out again. I suppose the only thing to do is to learn how to use a thumb pick properly so I can play the shuffle parts with it and then pick the bass strings with it in turn.

This probably all sounds pretty stupid, but any help would be appreciated before I swallow my pick and choke to death. :shock:

Thanks, Ken.

[Kirk Lorange]

Hi Ken.

I've never used a thumb pick either ... it's like trying to tap dance wearing skis, if you ask me.

I do let my thumb nail grow a little bit, just enough for a bit to protrude and pluck the bass strings. Depending on the angle of attack, I can vary the 'dig in'. There's a bit of a callous there too, right on the outside edge of my thumb at the corner of the nail. That also adds a bit of top end. Also, I often get in under the string and really lift them up as I twang 'em. That can give a lot of power and volume to the note.

Kirk

[kjgam1]

Thanks, Kirk.
I'll give it a try with some extra nail growth. Love the tap dancing analogy

Ken.

[BigG]

I don't use a thumbpick either. But when I experimented with one, I found you had to flatten your hand toward the bridge. Even letting the heal of your hand touch it. I also experimented with cutting the plucking side of the thumbpick until it felt comfortable enough. This succeeded for a time.

I gave up on all these experiments and resigned myself to bare thumb and fingers without nails. If you need more volume you just pluck harder. But you may want to play softly until you are more sure of your finger movements, more in control of your hand and your callouses develop.

Keep your hand in a classical position, without support or using a pinky. If you check out Steven King's website you'll see that he even recommends holding the guitar classical style. It certainly helps your chord hand to move more freely and places your plucking fingers at the best angle to the strings