Left-Hand Preparation

Now focus on the left-hand pattern, without using your right hand:

• Using the tip of your fourth finger, hold the first string down at the 12th fret. Your fingertip should be next to but not touching the 12th fret. Your other fingers should be in a relaxed, ready position, with the fingertips very close to the first string.
• Place the tip of your third finger on the 11th fret; then lift your fourth finger into a ready position.
• Place the tip of your second finger on the 10th fret; then lift your third finger into a ready position.
• Place the tip of your first finger on the ninth fret; then lift your second finger into a ready position. You have now completed one iteration of the left-hand pattern.
• Now place the tip of your fourth finger on the 11th fret; then lift your first finger into a ready position.
• Continue the pattern as you work your way down the fretboard one fret at a time. The word “down” is used to describe movement to a lower fret number.
• The feeling should be similar to walking, as you transfer the weight of your left arm from one finger to the next. Make sure that your thumb moves along with your hand as you move down the fretboard.
• As you move slowly down the fretboard, take time to find the middle of each fingertip. You should find the best part of the fingertip while you are still holding the previous note.
• After you play frets 4, 3, 2, and 1, your left hand should end up in a “ready position,” with your fingertips very close to the first string.