right hand position

[mandodebbie]

Apparently, it is exceptable to rest one's right hand pinky on the pick guard while you play. I find this uncomfortable myself for after awhile my right hand stiffens up. You're probabley doing fine with your method. Whatever works...!http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[John Craton]

Just FYI, here are some quotes from Cristofaro's method:

"The Plecturm is held between the thumb and first finger of the right hand. The hand should be so rounded that about a third of it impends over the strings.... The othet fingers of the right hand united, are held below the thumb and first finger, the little finger resting upon the top of the instrument between the sound hole and the cevelet.... Agitate the hand lightly and evenly to obtain the desired movement. The forearm should rest partly on the edg of the instrument, but with the bend of the wriest free, to ensure ease and flexibility in all its motions.... It is essential that the fingers be rounded and well separated from each other in order that they may move with grace, facility and lightness in falling upon or springing from the strings."

One can find alternate descriptions of the right-hand position in other methods. So while Cristofaro is considered one (of many) authorities, I suppose the bottom line is, as Mandodebbie says, "Whatever works"!