Alternating Bass Notes
The root note of a chord is the note after which the chord is named. For example:
- The root note of a C chord is C,
- The root note of a G7 chord is G
- The root note of an F chord is F.
In the previous example the thumb (p) played the root note of each chord as the bass note. To make picking patterns sound more interesting, the bass note can alternate between the root note and another note in the chord.
This example uses the same chord sequence as on the previous page, but each chord lasts for one bar and is played using alternating bass notes. The fingerpicking pattern does not change and the thumb (p) plays the bass notes. As with any song or chord progression, always hold the complete chord shape even though you might not pick every string.
Fingerpicking Pattern 1
Fingerpicking Pattern 2
Apply this new pattern to a C chord and alternate the bass. This pattern occurs twice in one bar of * time, using eighth notes.
The next two chord progressions are both turnarounds in the key of C major. When changing from C to Am, use your first and second fingers as pivots. You will only need to move your third finger when making this chord change. When changing from Dm to G7, use your first finger as a pivot.
Fingerpicking Pattern 2
Fingerpicking Pattern 2
