I am really enjoying the lessons. Thanks! Quick question on the funky jazz chords: What do you think about using the thumb to fret the bass note in some of the chords? Is it better to learn how to play without using the thumb even if it may take more practice to achieve the changes smoothly? Or is it better to play each in whatever fingering is easier, even if that means using the thumb?
I am a music teacher, and there is “suggested” fingering , and then there is the fingering that works for the student. I use my thumb often for bass notes. If you have big enough hands why not? Even for common chords, the fingering may change depending on the progression....sometime the next chord shares similar notes, and I will use a different fingering for a quicker transition. Just think of the A major chord, some people use three fingers, or one finger. When I do a barred chord in the A major shape often I use my pinky finger to play all three notes. So...there is no rule. Do what works for you , as long as it doesn’t impede your playing. :)
Here is Tomo's comment:
"Thank you so much for subscribing to my Guitar Wisdom. It is possible to play funky/jazz chords either way. I encourage you to work on these chords without using your thumb, so that you will have more fingering choices available to you."