How to Play Bass Guitar: Left Hand Position

This article can teach you the proper left hand techniques for playing the electric bass. With proper technique, you can start playing really advanced riffs and basslines to impress your friends or bandmembers.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An Electric Bass Guitar
• An amplifier and instrument cable (optional)

1. There are two different left hand positions you can use when playing bass guitar: Beginner position and Advanced position. Take the time to experiment with both and find out which is better for your experience level and playing style.

2. 
   A frontal view of the Beginner position

   Beginner position: This position is not just for beginners, as many highly skilled bass players use it, but rather because it is the position generally used by beginners while they are still learning how to play. To play in this position, simply place the palm of your left hand against the back of the neck of your bass, with your thumb slightly curved over, as shown in the picture.

3. 
   An overhead view of the Beginner position

   This position, shown in this second image from above, is easier because it doesn't put strain on your thumb. Unfortunately, it makes using your 4th finger more difficult because your fingers are not perpendicular to the strings.

4. 
   A frontal view of the Advanced position

   Advanced position: This position, while more difficult than the beginner position, is the most widely used because it allows easy access to all of the frets on the fingerboard. As shown in the picture, you place your thumb behind the neck and, slightly arching your wrist, curve your fingers up and over the fingerboard. from the side, your hand should look like the letter "C". This position is good for playing fast riffs or bass lines where you often switch strings.

5. 
   An overhead view of the Advanced position.

   Here is an overhead view of the Advanced position. This is what you should see when you look down at your left hand. Notice the placement of the thumb behind the neck and the curvature of the fingers.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are a beginner, don't be afraid to try the Advanced position - it is simply a matter of comfort and playability.
• You can also switch between the two positions, using the Beginner position near the headstock and the Advanced position as you go further up the neck.
• If your thumb starts to ache while using the Advanced position, or if it feels painful, you're probably pushing against the neck too hard. Try to put less pressure on your thumb. If that doesn't work, you may want to use the Beginner position instead.

Resources

• How to Play Bass Guitar: Right Hand Position