Hi Lynn. How do you fell about bassists assessing their playing posture with a mirror while practicing? Pro'? Cons? Thank-you.

Using a mirror and a video camera are wonderful tools to help you see what your posture is really like. Also recording video and/or audio tells you what you really sound like. The tape doesn't lie.....

Boy, the tape sure doesn't lie, isn't that the truth! Ok, assuming that "one size doesn't fit all", how would you advise students to find ther own best playing posture, rather than imitating other bassists they see/hear and aspire to play like? Thanks.

I think imitating the masters is a great idea. Also consult a teacher and look at classical instructional videos like Rabbath, Bradetich, or Karr.

So I guess you're saying that imitation of other bassists body movements is a good idea. Please correct me if I'm wrong. It does seem that imitation is good up to the point that it limits progress. In that case, at what point in the development of your students playing do you encourage them to find finding their personal sound and playing posture(s)? Thanks again!

I beleive the jouney to one's personal sound takes place and should be encouraged throughout life. Study of the master's style and technique is a time honored tradition. Ray Brown said he learned every note Jimmy Blanton ever recorded. Ray was able to find his own style. As with anything in art, the more we have in our knowledge pallet, the wiser choices we can make about what we want to include in our personal expression. Playing without hurting ouselves with good technique is also very important.

Excellent. Thanks again.:hyper: