Dusting off the old Bass

wanderica · #1 09-12-2007, 08:17 PM

This is my first post here so I'll start with a short introduction. About 12 years ago I made the decision to learn the bass guitar. After going through a couple of horrible teachers, (unknown to me) I found someone to play with. The best 2 years of my life were spent in Jim's room learning and jammin on Zepplin tunes. Sadly, we grew apart, and I gradually lost interest.

Almost 10 years later, I have the opportunity to play again. Unfortunately, as I quickly found out, I have forgotten almost everything I knew, which admittedly, wasn't much, however, I have had more fun relearning the bass than I ever thought possible.

I do have a musical background. I played the tuba for 6 years, so music theory and the importance of a solid bottom and rythym is not a new concept.

I was hoping one of you here could recommend a good instructional video or book. I realize the best way to learn is from a live teacher, but alas, my funds simply won't allow it. What I've found here so far has already been a tremendous help. I know you won't let me down.

Thanks in advance
wanderica

hunta · #2 09-13-2007, 08:35 AM

Try Chuck Rainey's "The Complete Electric Bass Player: Book 1." It's very thorough.

Baird6869 · #3 09-13-2007, 08:54 AM

I bet most of what you used to know will come back very quickly once you start playing again.

I was in the same boat as you after I took 15 years off!

Videos and books are great but I would recommend trying to play along with some favorite songs to try to get your fingers moving again. Download some music or TAB for some of the many sites out there as well.

wanderica · #4 09-13-2007, 03:57 PM

Hunta - Thanks for the reccomendation. I read several reviews and that book appears to be exactly what I need. I do tend to learn faster by hearing and seeing, however, so I still wouldn't mind finding a good video.

Baird - That's pretty much what I've been doing. Unfortunately, though, it has taught me just how much knowledge I lack. The first go-'round, my teachers never taught me scales and arpeggios. They simply took my 40$ check, and we learned a new song. I had fun, don't take me wrong, but when it came time to put my skills to use, I lacked the fundamentals of solid bass playing. That is something I would like to correct.