Improving Your Bass String Free Stroke – Video Practice Journal – May 3, 2012

by Rob Reid on May 3, 2012

Hi Everyone,

One thing I’ve been noticing a lot lately is that my free stroke is not as solid and “in control” on the bass (wound) strings as I would like it to be. I think a lot of guitarists (myself included) tend to focus on getting a great tone from the trebles but maybe the bass strings get a little left behind as the thumb usually does most of the work there.

Improving your free stroke on the bass is a great way to build strength and control in your hand and I hope this little exercise will help you out a bit.

Cheers!

Rob

About Rob Reid

Rob Reid has written 88 post in this blog.

Rob is a professional guitarist specializing in classical guitar teaching and performing. He is currently pursuing his Masters degree from Memorial University in St John's NL under the guidance of Sylvie Proulx. He loves it when you leave him a comment.

{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }

Robert May 10, 2012 at 2:10 pm

Hi Rob.
Thank you for this wonderful website. I am visiting and reading your posts almost everyday. Regarding this specific issue with the thumb, I like to share the Ricardo Iznaola book. The first level have some of the best exercises to help developing a very nice thumb technique.

Link On Amazon:

Kitharologus: The Path to Virtuosity

Reply

Rob Reid May 23, 2012 at 11:35 am

Hi Robert,

Thanks for the kind words… I know and love the book you’re talking about, however I couldn’t share the free link on here as it is copyright protected and Mr. Izanola deserves his fair cut I think :)

It is an excellent book however and very much recommended!

Kitharologus: The Path to Virtuosity

Reply

Scott Morris October 27, 2012 at 2:32 pm

Hi Rob, these video ask me questions is a great idea. It is very much appreciated that you do this.

I am working on some songs by Per Olov Kindgren. His chord rolls are outstanding, silky smooth. Can you share some tips on chord rolls and how to get the silky smooth sound professional guitarist such as yourself obtain?

Thanks for your time

Scott Morris

Reply

Rob Reid November 2, 2012 at 12:34 am

Hey Scott,

Thanks and great question! I love Per’s playing as well :) I will definitely see if I can come up with something to help you out in the next few days! Cheers, Rob

Reply

Rob Reid November 29, 2012 at 4:22 pm
Don Ridgway February 13, 2013 at 6:45 am

Great stuff, but sheesh, it’s hard to see what you’re doing. Just a bit better lighting would be welcome.

Reply

Rob Reid February 23, 2013 at 6:02 pm

Hey Don,

You’re right :) I’m still just using my crappy iphone camera and house lights, I’ll try and get under a better light next time !

Reply

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