When playing clawhammer, I quite often use an up pick with my index finger, rather than a down pick, on the 'bum' part. First, it sometimes just feels more natural. Second, I find that on long pieces, it relaxes my right hand, i.e. gives me a little temporary relief without ever missing a beat. I usually only do this when playing a note on the first string, but I'm liable to up and do it anytime. Actually, I don't consciously make the decision anymore, if it happens it happens, sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn't. I know it sounds hare-brained, but I think it works pretty well. Anyway, how the heck can one's style evolve without his trying some new approach once in a while?
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