what would be a good bass to start playing jazz on? is there one is the standard for jazz? please help. thanks

If you are buying an upright bass, there are so many choices. I would highly recommend going to a major string instrument dealer as opposed to going to a guitar/amplifier shop. Some people buy fully carved instruments and some jazzers like plywood basses. There are major dealers in many of the larger cities around the country. Getting the bass set up by a good luthier is also important. This summer the International Society of Bassists is holding it's convention at Penn State. There will numerous dealers from all over with lots of basses to choose from. You can get more information at the website www.isbworldoffice.com . The convention is one of the best places to shop for basses because you can speak to many dealers and try many basses. You can as other bassists to try the bass you are considering and get their oppinion too. Good Luck.

Thanks for your quick responce. My number one problem is that i live in East Texas where an upright bass is a pice of art in someones den. I don't have any place to even play an upright. The very few that I have found are cheap and most have major problems. I noticed you teach at University of North Texas do you know any place close to Kilgore,Longview,Tyler area? If not who do you use? Thanks again for your time.

Sorry it is such a challenge for you to find a bass and even play one. There are often obstacles to the dream of being an artist! I don't know who the luthiers are in your area. Try asking one of the schools that have a string program where they get their instruments fixed. They might have a lead for an instrument for sale. Sometimes it is well worth it to buy a quality instrument that needs some repair. If properly restored it can increase the value. We have a luthier at UNT named Joel MacMillan. He sometimes has basses for sale. He can be reached via the main UNT phone number at 940-565-2000. Ask the operator to connect you.

Thank you so much for the incoraging words. Inever thought off going to the school. And i do live two blocks from Kilgore Collage. Thank you again I hope you have a blessed day.:hyper: