When repeating a fast scale fragment on a single string (i.e. 124124124 etc.), the rhythm will dictate whether or not you leave the first finger down (which is usually the conventional wisdom). If your first finger falls on the downbeat, you will get a cleaner rhythm if you lift the first finger slightly – this will help you punch out the rhythm better. If any other finger falls on the downbeat, leave the first finger down throughout. Try these patterns to experiment:
124124 etc. – lifting first finger
421421 etc. keeping first finger down
12421242 etc. – lifting first finger
42124212 etc. – keeping first finger down
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