how to stay motivated

helterschecter · #1 09-06-2011, 04:57 PM

It feels like I'm in a rut. I started playing bass because my boss wanted some one to jam with. Shortly after I bought my bass he got fired and moved away. I enjoyed playing bass so I still continued playing and started taking lessons. I took lessons for just about a year and one day my bass instructors wife calls me telling me that my instructor has passed away. I don't really know any one I can play music with either. Iv tired getting another instructor but no one seem to fit. Iv tried dvd lessons such as teach me bass guitar but it so boring. I guess I should just sac up and get back out there. Maybe I'm just venting..thanks for any input

Stick_Player · #2 09-06-2011, 05:03 PM

Application usually fixes the rut.

Endlessly taking lessons and never performing would drive me insane.

Find some other musicians to play with.

sonofabass · #3 09-06-2011, 05:49 PM

This may seem silly bit try this:

1. Find a cover band website (regardless of the area/genre)

2. Look at their song list page and download load or copy it.

3. Ask yourself; " how many of these songs could I play if I was asked to sit in with this band tonight"

4. Pick a couple of songs at a time and learn them well enough that you'd have no problem with #3

Melodious_Thump · #4 09-07-2011, 08:11 AM

To the OP:
Learn new songs that you REALLY like, but make sure they're easy enough to learn that you can get them under your fingers in about 2 weeks, tops. Then move on to the next and the next song and the next.... You picked up a bass to have fun, right?

I'm not jamming with anyone or gigging, but I find that doing the above keeps me motivated, learning and eager to pick up my bass!

Good luck.

treekiller · #5 09-07-2011, 08:25 AM

If you are in a place where it is difficult to find other musicians to play/jam with, what I have found has helped me was playing along with recordings. I especially like live/concert DVD's where you can actually see what position the bass player is playing in(on the rare occasions when they show him!). However, nothing beats interacting with other players and learning "on your feet" so to speak. Be patient, keep an open mind and it will happen. Good luck!!!