How to Play “cliffs of Dover” on Bass as a Lefty Tapping Song

by

Playing “Cliffs of Dover” on bass as a left-handed musician can be an exciting challenge. This iconic instrumental by Eric Johnson features fast picking and intricate tapping techniques that translate well to bass guitar, especially for left-handed players looking to add a unique twist to their performance.

Understanding the Song Structure

“Cliffs of Dover” is known for its energetic melodies and complex techniques. The song primarily uses a combination of alternate picking, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and tapping. As a bass player, your goal is to adapt these techniques to the lower string set while maintaining the song’s fast tempo and melodic clarity.

Adapting for Left-Handed Tapping

For left-handed players, the main adjustment involves the orientation of your bass and tapping hand. Here are some tips:

  • Use a mirror or a left-handed bass to ensure proper fret orientation.
  • Practice finger independence by isolating tapping with your dominant hand while fretting with your left hand.
  • Focus on clean, precise taps to replicate the song’s fast passages.

Essential Techniques

Key techniques to master include:

  • Tapping: Use your right hand to tap on the fretboard, mimicking the song’s melodic lines.
  • Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: Incorporate these with your fretting hand to add fluidity.
  • Alternate Picking: Maintain a steady rhythm while integrating tapping for complex passages.

Practice Tips

To effectively learn “Cliffs of Dover” as a lefty tapping bass player, consider these practice strategies:

  • Break down the song into smaller sections and master each slowly before increasing speed.
  • Use a metronome to maintain consistent timing.
  • Record yourself to evaluate your technique and timing.
  • Experiment with different fingerings to find what feels most natural.

Conclusion

Adapting “Cliffs of Dover” for left-handed bass players using tapping techniques opens up new creative possibilities. With patience and consistent practice, you can master this challenging piece and add your own style to its energetic melodies. Embrace the technical challenges and enjoy bringing this iconic song to life on your bass guitar.