The Debate Over Picks vs Fingers for Bass Guitar and How to Choose

Choosing between using a pick or fingers on a bass guitar is a common decision faced by many aspiring bassists. Both techniques have their merits and are used widely in various genres. This article aims to explore the pros and cons of each method and provides guidance on how to choose the style that best suits your playing.

Learn Both Techniques for Versatility

It's important to understand that picking and fingerstyle are not mutually exclusive. Many professional bassists use both techniques in different contexts. Whether you ultimately decide to use a pick or your fingers, it's crucial to learn both to enhance your overall playing versatility.

The Author's Approach

The author of this article has a background in classical guitar and bass fingerpicking. Learning the apoyando technique with the index and middle fingers, the author prefers fingerstyle. However, the use of the thumb is also fundamental for bass playing, something that is impossible when using a pick.

Despite this, there are numerous successful bass players who use picks in their playing. It all depends on personal preference and the context of the music. It's recommended to experiment with both techniques to see which one feels more comfortable and natural for you.

Fingerstyle vs Flat Picking

For a beginner, the author suggests learning fingerstyle first as it is more versatile and easier to switch between techniques. Fingerstyle allows for string skipping, which is commonly used in bass playing. Additionally, if you want to emulate certain bass techniques like slapping, fingerstyle makes it easier to do so.

On the other hand, flatpicking (using a pick) is frequently used in genres like rock, particularly in hard rock and metal. The choice between these two techniques largely depends on the style of music you are interested in and the bassists you admire.

Key to Mastery: Timing

The key to mastering any instrument, including the bass guitar, is timing, not technique, equipment, or the genre of music. Timing refers to the ability to play consistently within a given rhythm. A metronome with a 'click' is an essential tool to develop this skill.

It is recommended to use a metronome over phone apps as they are often less accurate. QwicTime offers high-quality metronomes, but you can also use reputable phone apps if you prefer. The sound of a click is more precise and helps in developing the internal timing that is crucial for accurate playing.

Practicing with a Metronome

Timing can be practiced by playing simple songs or scales against a metronome. Start with basic lessons online and, if possible, buy a course from a reputable instructor like Rick Beato on YouTube.

Choose simple and solid tunes to practice. One recommended song for practice is 'Albatross' by Fleetwood Mac. While the bass line is straightforward, precise timing is crucial to make the song sound right. Regular practice with a metronome will improve your timing and internal rhythm.

Building a Strong Foundation

Learning to play bass guitar well is a process that requires patience and consistent practice. Start by learning the notes on the fretboard, beginning with the bottom two strings. From there, it's easy to work out the positions of the next two strings. Consistent practice with a metronome will improve your timing, and accuracy in this area is crucial.

Speed and fancy techniques come later. The foundation of all good bass playing is learning the correct notes at the right time, developing your internal timing, and recognizing your key signatures. These are the fundamental skills that form the basis of your playing.

Conclusion

The choice between using a pick or your fingers on the bass guitar comes down to personal preference and the style of music you want to play. Both techniques have their unique advantages and are widely used by professional bassists. If you're starting, it's recommended to learn fingerstyle first to build a strong foundation in timing and versatility. From there, you can explore the different techniques that suit your style and preferences.