If TIM becomes easy with time (eventually, for Owen) , why does the MIT feel so awkward? Is it because we use the forward roll so much more? Or is there some structural thing in our hands/fingers that cause us problems? Or is starting with the Middle finger more difficult because it has shared structural formations with the ring finger? Sonny Osborne, on his BHO thread, mentioned that it was more difficult. Some folks even suggest that Earl Scruggs arranged Home Sweet Home with backward rolls to keep them fluid for his overall playing. (see below). Groundspeed starts with two backward rolls,, I play the beginning of Turkey in the Straw with one, always drilling it a few times a week to keep it at par. (I've also included an Ai explanation)
Edited by - chuckv97 on 11/14/2026 14:46:56
An excellent topic!
While the forward roll is a no-brainer, the backward roll is something I have to actually think about and it’s harder to get smooth.
I’ve tried substituting a backward roll in place of a forward and it suddenly sounds more syncopated and interesting.
But what makes it harder?
I have no insights; I'm still workin' on TITM/TITM/TITM/etc. ..... the ^^ advanced stuff'll have to wait. 
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