Thanks for that.
Dumb question #1: Is there a particular reason this is done up the neck [i.e. frets 7>12] rather than down the neck with an open "G"?
Which leads to dumb question #2: Does ^^ have to do with it being kinda hard to do a "muted chop" in open "G"?
This video is a good explanation of the quintessential rhythmic element in Bluegrass music. In his instruction book, Earl Scruggs referred to it as “vamping”. It’s a great instructional video, but some important aspects of the technique were omitted.
When the bass note is not played, and only the first three strings are played, the finger pressure against the first three strings is relieved after the "pinch" to achieve a percussive, muted sound. I believe that answers Owen’s questions; pinching open strings doesn’t achieve the percussive, muted effect. Also, the right hand is usually located closer to the neck, rather than close to the bridge. Some players prefer to gently rest the heel behind the thumb of the right hand against the banjo head. That adds to the percussive, muted effect, and surprisingly, it doesn't diminish the loudness of the technique.
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