First lesson ever

lanceropolis · #1 08-13-2009, 10:46 AM

So I took my first real bass lesson yesterday from a pro in the area, Vernon Porter. All I can say is wow. I have had three semesters of theory in college, and played bass for 15 years, and I left with the healthy attitude of "I know nothing". I know some people would be bothered by that, but I was encouraged. I had been hitting a wall for the last five or so years, where I didn't know what to do. If anyone, and I mean anyone feels that way, then you need to go to a lesson with a pro in your area. It opened so many doors for me. For example:

I can not solo. I mean I could hunt and peck, but soloing just didn't make any sense to me. I have the technique, just not the applied theory knowledge to make it all work. Well after yesterday I am seeing already some major improvement in my approach to the bass. It was like someone just unlocked everything I had been feeling had been locked, and even now, it just starts making sense in my head.

I am going to take lessons from him as long as I can. And seriously, TAKE LESSONS. I only wish I would have done this years ago...

That is all.

OmegaBass16 · #2 08-13-2009, 12:28 PM

In seeking a "pro in my area"(that would be Indianapolis,IN), what would you suggest a
way of seeking out this type of individual ? What qualifications should this person have ?
I didn't have a good experience with my first teacher, he was more of a bass player rather
than a bass teacher. I don't want to repeat this misfortune, and suggestions would be
appreciated.

jollygiantchris · #3 08-13-2009, 12:57 PM

I just want to throw in there make sure you're taking lessons from someone that is actually good as a teacher. I took bass lessons for 2.5 years and after the first 6 mos or so I didn't feel that I learned anything. Whereas I've taken 3 guitar lessons (so far) from a diff guy and it has almost completely changed the way I look at the fretboard and music in general.

J. Crawford · #4 08-13-2009, 01:00 PM

I took lessons from a local guy for 4 years.. We were convinced the rate, and amount I was learning was perfect, puts lots of cash into him.

I went to a concert of a fellow bassist of mine, we sat down, and he showed me more in those 15 minutes than I learned in 4 years.

Lets just say I dont take lessons from him anymore.

Stumbo · #5 08-13-2009, 11:26 PM

Find a teacher