New (but Older) Bass Player Here

[netgeist]

Hey folks! My name's netgeist and I'm just getting started with the bass. I bought a package about a month ago that included the Squier Affinity P Bass, amp, tuner, etc.

I love it so far and am totally hooked on it. At the same time, I feel a little odd getting started at 39 when most decent musicians start in the teens. So I'd love to hear from other older newbs on how they get past these types of hang-up.

Thanks,

- netgeist

[JoeSimmonds]

Hey there, i have just joined and want to say hi

In my opinion, as long as you enjoy the music it doesn't matter when you start playing

[MisterFabulous]

netgeist,
Ya got me beat by 3 years. Just think how good you'll be in that time. I think the biggest challenge for us is other commitments (work, family, etc.) get in the way of learning. There's just is no quick way to proficiency on this thing.

What are your goals?

[JimInMO]

Hey, I'm 67. Started on bass a year and a half ago. Played guitar for years so knowing the fretboard helped a lot. Only problem is arthritis, especially in my right hand. Plucking fingers aren't as nimble as I would like. I use a pick it it gets too bad but prefer not too.

[COOL AND DEADLY]

Netgeist,
First off, congratulations! Picking up an instrument and learning to play takes courage, determination, and a lot of work. I started playing at 32, and I had friends scratching their heads, questioning my decision. I'm 39 now, and I'm so glad I had the courage to stay with it. Music is a huge part of my life and I practice every day. I play in two bands now and it is so rewarding, I can not describe. All the great people I've met, played with, learned from etc. has been one of the best things that has ever happened to me.
I reccommend getting a few lessons from a bass instructor. I say bass instructor because many guitarists give bass lessons, but I believe bass players usually have a different outlook. If there are any bass clinics, classes or camps near you, you should sign up.
Set some goals. Practice good technique, work on playing accurately and for long and lon ger periods of time. One of your goals should be to play with others. When I started
I just wanted to play along with cd's and play for fun by myself. That was great, but got old quick. Then I started recording myself with a drum machine. Again, helpful (I still do it) but it got old. Then I started going to open mics, and WHOAAAA! This was more like it! I never felt so good in my life! next I put flyers up in music stores. Found a drummer,(now my best friend), met a guitarist who knew another guitarist, and now we've been together 5 years and played over 250 shows in 4 states. I've since stepped up my musicianship by attending camps with Gerald Veasley and Victor Wooten.
Sorry for the long ramble, just stick with it, stay positive, don't get discouraged and most of all have fun!

[DarkShadesBill]

Welcome!

Nice to see someone with similar circumstances.
I'm just 40 and I started playing bass about a year ago.

Playing bass has definitely become my therapy: I come home from work and get the day's stress out with my bass.

One word of caution: because, at our age, we are more established in our careers, we have more resources then the teens who are starting out - that means GAS tends to be a bit higher priced

[lowendfriend]

Originally Posted by netgeist

Hey folks! My name's netgeist and I'm just getting started with the bass. I bought a package about a month ago that included the Squier Affinity P Bass, amp, tuner, etc.

I love it so far and am totally hooked on it. At the same time, I feel a little odd getting started at 39 when most decent musicians start in the teens. So I'd love to hear from other older newbs on how they get past these types of hang-up.

Thanks,

- netgeist

This may help....I started at 57 (well restarted after 41 years).

All in yo' head, man. Get over it and play!

[kesslari]

Hi netgeist,
I think I used to know your sister, zeitgeist...
Anyway, the good thing is, music is not a race. You start when you start, and you progress from there. The key is to enjoy it. And playing music is one of the most enjoyable things you can do.
Welcome!

[Stumbo]

Welcome to TB!

You might want to check out the links in my sig. below for some great TB info that may help you along the way.

Good luck.

[ellive4u]

Hey dude don't worry. I think you get the job in any band if you have the bold spirits. there is no age for any kind of starter, so don't feel odd.If you need any kind of help you might check the link el-live
Have a Great day.