Need advice for getting better

[Funk'D]

Well i'm in a band, been playing bass or about a year now, though not as consistently as i'd have liked. I consider myself to be pretty good, can play slapbass kinda well too, but i know NOTHING about music theory...scales, arpeggios, even chords dont mean anything to me.

I've started writing originals with my band, and i've come up with a few good riffs but they're not really based on anything, and i'm not really sure what to do next, any suggestions?

[Erik_4_Prez]

Lessons, my friend. Lessons

I've been playing bass about 2 and a half years myself, started taking in-depth lessons for the last 6 months, and it has made me such a better composer and player...

[fearceol]

Assuming you have mastered good technique, there are lots of things you can do to keep improving. Learn some basic theory, (www.studybass.com is a great site ), learn to sight read, practice your timing and groove.

A good teacher can not only teach you, but motivate you, and keep you pointed in the right direction.

[Funk'D]

Haven't really got the time or money for lessons lol, so any tips for independent improvent are much appreciated

Thanks fearceol, ill check the site out

[Erik_4_Prez]

There are plenty of lessons you can watch and study for free on Youtube as well; no money required.

[Michael Case]

Stop logging onto talkbass.

[fearceol]

Originally Posted by Michael Case

Stop logging onto talkbass.

True !! From a personal point of view, if I spent more time practicing than posting, I'd be a much better bassist.


This place is addictive !!

[totallyfrozen]

Originally Posted by Michael Case

Stop logging onto talkbass.

LOL'D OUT LOUD!

That's hilarous! It's true, man, there are so many different opinions around here and alot of bad ideas that this place can mess a player up just as easily as help.

OP, if you don't have the $$ for lessons then get on Amazon (or someplace like that) and buy some books and DVDs and teach yourself...IF you have the disclipline to work hard at it even when it's boring. Get a metronome and a good set of books (like Hal Leonard, for example) and study them closely. If you don't know anything about theory, scales, chords, arpeggios, etc.; then you've only been figuring things out by ear. That's not going to get you very far.
Once you start focusing on some serious study, I think you'll find you're not as good as you thought you were.

With a proper study area (like a room where you can practice undisturbed), a metronome, some bass method books (and DVDs if you like), and alot of dedication and focus you should be able to learn the basics by yourself.

BTW, we're kidding. You should still keep coming back to TalkBass. There are alot of good players and teachers here who can help you.