Needing to go to next level

[Jeff F]

Hey David,
2 1/2 years ago I thought it looked like more fun to be up there playing in my church praise band than mixing the sound. Borrowed a bass got a Hal Leonard book and started plucking. Few months later they needed a bassist. I was right it is more fun to play .

I have been playing now for 1 1/2 years mainly root notes, with the occassional major or minor triad. We all use the lead sheets with chord changes marked above the words, nothing in between them. Sometimes I may find tabs for the song we play. Had a accident and was out for a while. Now someone else plays in band.

I am wanting to get to the next level while I'm in my down time which I assume is playing something other than the root note. I just bought a fine ash body Fender Jazz and a Bass for Dummies book to help me get there.

What would you suggest for me to move up from here?

Thanks for your time
Jeff

[Dave Overthrow]

Hey Jeff, It sounds like what would really help you is to become more familiar with chord structures, diatonic harmony, constructing bass lines using chord tones, then incorporating scales tones etc.... Reading chord changes is an art form and essential for any bassist whom wants to creatively construct effective and interesting bass lines on the spot.

I have written a series of books titles "The Complete Electric Bass Method" This method comes in three volumes: The first two volumes, Beginning and Intermediate, would serve you well. The Beginning book deals with learning major scales, chord formulas (triads, 7th chords), diatonic harmony, and how to use this information in a step by step manner to create bass lines over a set of given chord changes in a variety of styles. The Intermediate book covers pentatonic scales, blues scales, the modes, minor scales and how to use them effectively in creating more interesting bass lines. This book also has a chapter dedicated to walking bass, which is an excellent study if you want to learn to create bass lines over chord changes. I think these two books would really get you pointed in the right direction. You can get these books practically anywhere or go to the books page on my website to find where to get the books. Let me know if you have any questions. Hope this helps.

Peace,
-Dave

[Jeff F]

I will get them and go to work. I appreciate you getting back with me. Will let you know how I am progressing.

Thank You

[Dave Overthrow]

Jeff,

Let me know how things go. Drop a line if you have any questions on the books.

Peace,
Dave