generally instruct me on how to play a fretless bass

[brothertupelo]

that is to say, instruct me generally on the playing of a bass without frets. assume i know theory, but very little application.

[Andrew Jones]

This won't be a popular answer but.........


Play only in the first four frets for 6 months pretend the rest doesn't exist.

To do this you'll.

Have one basic shift or none depending on your hands and comfort level.

Use open strings as often as possible.

Learn lots of inversion shapes.


Aj

[bassman314]

If at all possible, get a lined fretless identical to your current fretted model.

Yes, you have to shift your positioning slightly, but the muscle memory is easier to build when you already know your way around the fretboard.

The lines just allow you to visually spot the placement, and then let your ears do the rest.

[TrevorOfDoom]

use open notes, and your ears!

[yugo]

use the open strings to be sure your in tune, use your ears, and practice practice practice

[ExaltBass]

Don't get hung up on being slidey - work on accurate intonation. Scales work well, because you (should) know what it should sound like. Developing your ear is critical.

[crow01]

watch some Jaco he will teach you