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![]() Mandolin: Picking Hand Problems Avoiding Pick Noise Date: Thu, 29 Jan 2009 23:26:07 -0700 Mickey: I've been loving the new mandolin and it's really made a difference. As has your dvd "Introduction to the Mandolin". I'm struggling with the F chord and want to amputate my little finger, but other than that, things are going well. Hi Maureen, Thanks for the positive update. I have two questions. I'm not sure what position my right hand should be in. I've read conflicting advice on having the soft part of the hand brush against the bridge - or - resting the right hand little finger on the mandolin for support with the other fingers curled under. Yes, and conflicting they are ... I really wouldn't recommend either one. It's OK to rest the little finger on the pickguard if you're so inclined and it really does give you an anchor for better right-hand positioning (by anchoring the soft part of the hand on the bridge, you'll be limiting your right-hand movement and facility). The best right-hand position would be to keep it free and floating above the strings. Hold the pick with the thumb on top and the index finger below curled up. Try your best to not over tighten your grip for the pick needs some slight movement and a tense hand is counterproductive to playing in a natural relaxed manner. The other question is that because this is an F model mandolin and the one you use on the dvd is an A model, I'm a little unsure if I'm holding it correctly. I've got the little "curl" resting against my leg (inner thigh), but I'm wondering about the overall angle. I'm not sure this question makes sense, but I hope you know what I mean. Sure, I understand. And, really, it's best to be using your strap for most of the support. Although, it does sound like you have a good sitting position ... as long as it's comfortable and does not impede your playing, you should be fine. I hope things are well in New Mexico and that your business is thriving. Yes. All is well and Mystic West is really growing fast. I have another career so it's becoming somewhat difficult to juggle the two. I really would prefer to keep Mystic West/Folk of the Wood as an avocation ... I just couldn't ever manage Folk of the Wood when it was in full force. Waaaay too complicated! If you ever find yourself in San Francisco, it would be great to meet you. Also, if you know of any mandolin teachers in this area, please let me know. The dvd is great, but I have the occasional question. Thanks so much ... it would be great to visit the town where so many of my favorite bands originated. Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna being two of my very favorites. I'm not too sure about a mandolin teacher in your vicinity; however, I have advertised with the California Bluegrass Association. I suspect they would know of some teachers in your vicinity. Try contacting: California Bluegrass Association <edalston@aol.com> Here's their web site: http://www.cbaontheweb.org/index.asp And, feel free to e-mail me questions anytime. Mickey Thanks. -Maureen Mickey Cochran Folk of the Wood http://www.folkofthewood.com http://www.mysticwestproducts.com http://www.wisdomofthewood.com http://www.ragtimeguitar.com
Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 20:30:23 EDT |
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