On guitar I anchor pinky to keep my picking hand stable and develop accuracy, speed, and confidence, which in turn promotes relaxation for the player. We all know that a player that is totally relaxed with no muscle tension does a much better job than the player with a cramped hand and tensed up shoulders. The relaxed person is the player who’s hands seem to glide effortlessly over the fretboard and strings.
I also play Bluegrass banjo which involves the Picking hand Executing banjo rolls of all nature played at speed. Most Bluegrass pickers anchor pinky AND ring finger picking with thumb, index, and middle fingers. Some banjo players only use the pinky, but I have not seen a Bluegrasser that does not anchor. It’s necessary because of the steady speed and accuracy required.
In summation; I think anchoring the pinky promotes accuracy, speed, and relaxation, all building confidence in the player.
Blues.
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