Full or jr size bass for young kid starting out?

[JimS]

My 9 year old son wants to play bass guitar and my 6 year old son wants to play (regular) guitar.

Do any of you who have teaching experience think the 9 y.o. should start with:

1)full size or 3/4 or 5/8 scale instrument?
2)4 or 5 string?
3)full or small size guitar for the 6 y.o.?

They both want full size instruments and one could argue they won't have to make an adjustement with their hands and technique in few years. However, their hands are significantly smaller and barre chords and runs on the low E or B string on the first four frets will be difficult for them.

[reedo35]

Originally posted by JimS


They both want full size instruments and one could argue they won't have to make an adjustement with their hands and technique in few years. However, their hands are significantly smaller and barre chords and runs on the low E or B string on the first four frets will be difficult for them.

You almost answered your own question there, Jim. Kids that age generally do not have a very long attention span, and the pain that they will endure,(despite the possible hand injuries they could also inflict) will probably make them want to quit because it hurts too much. I suggest a half size or better to start that young.

[CamMcIntyre]

What reedo said but if they're big enough for a full size [can hold it & fret it ok everywhere on the neck] get them the full size. I got my Jazz when i was 9 or 10, but then again i was around 5ft tall then & had big hands. Well i hope they stick with it.