Right hand position/shape

[Rick Cadger]

Ever since I first started playing guitar (decades ago) I noticed that most people's right hand (or left for southpaws) seems to nearly form a fist as they strum and pick. I see the same with mandolin.

My own technique has always been a relaxed hand with fairly open (but not splayed) fingers.

I always figured I was somehow doing it wrong, and at various points over the years I have tried to develop a hand position more like that I see other using. It never seems quite comfortable, and when I persist I am never happy with my picking accuracy. What's more, I often find my knuckles (the ones nearest the ends of the fingers) brushing the strings and interfering with the sound.

Any thoughts? Is the closed right had better technique? Are there any benefits? Should I just go with what comes naturally? Am I worrying over nothing. Are there disadvantages to playing with a fairly open hand.

Apologies if this is trivial and dull.

[Ted Eschliman]

Good right hand position can really help open doors (http://jazzmando.com/tips/archives/000169.shtml).

[Robert Moreau]

I found this site helpful:

http://www.users.waitrose.com/~john.baldry/mando/righthnd.html

And one more:

http://www.folkofthewood.com/page3592.htm

Hope these sites help!

Rob

[loosej]

i think this video will help answer your question:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsua-qf2Ku0&mode=related&search

i don't think you can approach his speed and control unless your fingers are aligned.

[Rick Cadger]

Thanks, guys. All good stuff.

I have no prob with pick grip and control. I literally just wondered if there was a practical reason that I should work on keeping those fingers curled. So far I haven't seen anything to suggest it's actually important in itself. The other stuff, about a relaxed wrist and grip, the mando pick grip etc I totally agree with, and already conform with.

I had actually noticed that Sam Bush sometimes plays with loose, uncurled fingers. If it's good enough for Sam, I think I'll stop worrying about it.

[Curtis]

Those are all great links to put in some sort of FAQ. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[JeffD]

If I kept a closed fist I wouldn't be able to plant my pinky. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[Fretbear]

Tim O'Brien plays open handed and it doesn't seem to hurt his playing....

[lovethemf5s]

On his instruction DVD Adam Steffey plays open handed too. I think I even see him plant his pinky a couple of times.