Musings and update for the new year...
Well, a lot's happened since I last updated this thread. First, I developed cubital tunnel syndrome (similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, but affecting the ulnar nerve at the elbow) as a result, my hand goes numb in the last two fingers if I flex my elbow much beyond 90 degrees... this makes base side playing difficult to say the least. I almost quit in frustration.
But, I can't get this instrument out of my head. So, I started trying different positions - a lower positioning, playing it horizontal like a guitar, none of which worked. Then I came across Paigano's old post on playing lap style. I tried it, and voila! No more numbness. (also helped with being able to focus on the strings since it is all the same distance).
So, I am now playing in straight 4ths, with a unified tuning. By this I mean the note pattern is unbroken / not shifted when transitioning from the bass to the melody side. (It does drop an octave down at the 6th string. The only other change was because I found hitting low E on the 'X' fret was more difficult than on the 1st fret, I detuned it 1/2 step. So on the first fret, EADGCF from low to high 12th string to 8th, then the pattern continues on the second fret BEADGC.
Anyhow. The next thing that happened was I watched Josh's video on 3 note per string rudiments, based on Bob Culbertson's video.
viewtopic.php?f=15&t=12644&hilit=note+patternAt first, it just didn't gel. Which is frustrating. But then I made a mock up of the stick, and with the three major scales (starting with root on the index, then middle finger, then third finger). But i printed them so that they ran into each other in a continuation. Then, I could see the 3 note rudiments, and suddenly it just clicked. (I attached the file, hope it loads).
Josh, so helpful. Thank you.
So the last thing that happened was Scott (Jayesskerr) sent me a PM on some tips for learning to play by ear. It was pretty simple actually. Put on some music you like and play with it. Play something. Just do it. Pick out a base line. Even if its just one repeating note that changes with the chord changes. Do it for the whole song. Don't stop. Do it again.
Pretty embarrassed that I assumed I couldn't play by ear without ever really trying. So cool. Not good at it, but I can do it. Damn. Who'd have thought it?
Anyhow, that's what I "accomplished" in the past few months: I nearly quit. I persevered anyhow and figure out how to solve my "issue". Learned some fundamentals, and learned a little about playing by ear.
New years resolution: Practice more. Gee, isn't that basic?