Instruction Opinions Needed

[L0wD0wn]

My middle school daughter has decided she wants to take up bass (I'm thrilled!). She wants to get into the jazz band at her school. This can only be the start of something good. Anyway, I have a bass for her to use. My question is: For a brand new bass player what is your opinion of how to start out? There are lots of online courses, video courses, and lessons with a real player available. Which would be the best approach for someone just starting out? Thanks.

[JimmyM]

a teacher is always the best course of action, especially someone who will teach her all the fun stuff like how to read, good technique, theory, etc. but there are some very nice courses out there on dvd/cd/book that could get her started. roy vogt just came out with a course called "teach me bass guitar" that's supposed to be great. there are a few others as well...i'm sure you'll get a few very good suggestions. but the teacher is always the best course of action.

[Chris K]

Originally Posted by JimmyM

a teacher is always the best course of action, especially someone who will teach her all the fun stuff like how to read, good technique, theory, etc. but there are some very nice courses out there on dvd/cd/book that could get her started. roy vogt just came out with a course called "teach me bass guitar" that's supposed to be great. there are a few others as well...i'm sure you'll get a few very good suggestions. but the teacher is always the best course of action.

+1000 - teacher!
... and it better not be her dad - for various reasons...

[MalcolmAmos]

If this is her first venture into playing music then yes a live person sitting with her exchanging ideas and answering questions is the best way for her to get started.

If she now plays another instrument, and has played with other musicians, there are many how to play bass lessons on the Internet. I found www.studybass.com to be a good place to start.

Brand new to a musical instrument - the instructor is the way to go.

You mentioned your Middle School has a jazz band. Talk to the director he/she will be able to point you to an instructor, perhaps the school already has an introductory class. Jazz musicians just don't materialize, I bet, the director draws his musicians from classes within the school.

Good luck.