Andy Rourke

You don't want to be a one-trick pony. On a lot of Smiths songs, I used a pick or a plectrum, and for some of the slow songs, I used my thumbs and my fingers. That's why I love the bass - it's adaptable, and you can express yourself so well with it.

English Musician

Suzi Quatro

The golden rule for playing the bass is that's it all about feel, not just plonking away. You need to feel the sound, not using a pick or a plectrum - which has meant plenty of calluses on my fingers.

American Musician

Jack Garratt

Every single pair of trousers I own has a plectrum in it.

British Musician

Understand 'plectrum' is most often used in relation to playing stringed instruments.

Musical Context

Plectrums can be made of various materials, affecting the instrument's sound quality.

Variety of Materials

Plectrums can come in different sizes and shapes; there's no one-size-fits-all.