Bass for Beginners

In many ways bass is a simple instrument to start with. We just play one note at a time, learn to maintain a simple rhythm, and focus on the root of the chord. It is true that bass is more physically demanding than other instruments, but with time, practice, and a little patience I guarantee that your strength and flexibility will surprise you. If you are concerned about the physical demands of bass playing you may want to consider a short scale bass (30" instead of the normal 34" or 35"). These instruments still offer a fantastic sound with much easier playability.

Aside from technique, we will focus on the traditional role of the bass in a band, how to control the beat and tap into underlying rhythms, and how you affect the entire harmony. The bass has a unique role because its primary obligation is to the bass note while still having to carry rhythmic and melodic responsibilities (don't get stressed out now, I'll walk you through it!). Your fundamental obligation is usually the root of the chord...but not always! I will teach you how the lowest notes of the song (that's you, bass player) affect all the notes above it. It both shapes and controls the harmony and melody. If the bass sounds bad, everyone sounds bad. Like I said, don't let this stress you out. We'll do it together!

Intermediate and Advanced Bass

With my more seasoned bass players we delve into warm-up and practice routines I call Skill Builders. Each skill-building exercise is specifically designed or modified to meet your precise goals. We can work on filling in gaps and strengthening existing skill sets such as rhythm and timing, knowledge of chords, scales, and keys, familiarity with the fretboard, sight reading, and creating great bass lines. Some students want to take on the challenge of playing a 5-string or 6-string bass, work on advanced slapping rhythms, bass chords, or whatever it is that will take them to that next level. I may have failed to mention this before: it's an AMAZING instrument and worthy of a lifetime of study.

Bass Lessons...for Guitar Players?

That's right, you heard me! For more serious guitar players I generally recommend studying bass at some point (and visa versa, of course!). This will help you to better understand the roll of this instrument - your partner and harmonic support system. It leads to more informed choices with your guitar playing like when to be in lock-step with the bass and when to stay out of it's way. It also helps you to understand the roll of the low notes on your own instrument. After all, the guitar is only 1 octave above the bass, so you are playing in the same ballpark, so to speak. Studying bass is also tremendously helpful for songwriting so you may better craft this fundamental instrument into your musical vision. C'mon, pick up a bass! You know you want to.