Ever have the problem where your third and pinky finger “fly out” constantly when trying to play bass scale runs? It’s a very common problem that many players have – even for seasoned players.
The video below shows how to put a stop to that with simple exercises.
What will be the end result of getting better control over your fret hand? Faster, easier runs done much more smoothly. It takes time and some patience to cure the “flying fingers” problem, but it’s totally worth it.
Check out the video below, and be sure to leave a comment or two on whether you think this is good technique or not.
Scott, is a wonderful teacher !
Scott rocks – best bass teacher on-line
Very interesting! I use that same method for my warm ups. Great minds think alike!!!
I am trying to figure this out, it seems that a lot of the greatest and most original rock bass players of all time suffer from this so called problem? John Entwhistle and Geddy Lee come to mind, so maybe we need more focus on originality and not this type of stuff. I think this puts the mind in the wrong place, or maybe its just some jazz thing…. Rock on and do something original!! Make some low end Noise boys and girls, practice songs not scales, to paraphrase Jimmy Page!
Scott showed the anti flying technique with 4 fingers. It also works with 3 finger, upright bass fingering too. I find that I get cramps from playing with my hand spread out for 4 finger style until I get high enough up the finger board. Then I switch. I go in and out of 3, or 4 finger patterns without giving too much thought to it, as it has become second nature. For me it becomes a more conscious thing depending on the demands of what I’m playing. Some repetitive patterns can really be brutal so it’s important to be able to vary your technique to keep your hands more relaxed.
What kind of bass is that?
AN Overwater jazz bass.
Thank you Scott! Great lessons…Awesome…