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Open Strings VS. Fretted Notes

Technique Intermediate 1 min read

Updated

Open strings and fretted notes are both fair game in a bass line. The only thing worth watching is that an open string's different attack and sustain doesn't break the flow of the phrase — and when the line moves quickly, that difference usually disappears. Choose whichever option keeps your hands most relaxed in the moment.

Originally published July 21, 2014, lightly edited for clarity.

I have had a lot of students over the years say that they had heard you should avoid open strings when playing your lines on bass guitar. The only thing I have found to watch out for with open strings is to make sure they do not sonically disrupt the flow of the line because the sound of an open string note is different from that of a fretted note. If the notes are moving fast enough, this is usually not a problem. The longer I play and teach bass guitar, the more I believe the choices you make with your hand positions and fingering should be what ever makes the most sense to do at that moment balanced with whatever is the most relaxed way to use the hands. The following video walks through these points. Fingering technique is one of the fundamentals I teach. For personalized coaching on fingering and open-string choices, online bass lessons via Zoom are available.

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  2. Left Hand Form

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