Technique vs. Theory

[AmazingGracePlayer]

Which do you think is more important? Being able to play many very hard licks on the bass, or being able to walk through complex chord progressions? Cast your vote!
(This is sort of a no-brainer for jazz bassists)



Edit: this is just based on your personal opinion. Nobody will argue with you. At least I won't.

[Marcus]

I prefer "Having fun: being able to play anything your own way"

[AmazingGracePlayer]

Thanks for voting.

[Phil Smith]

It requires technique to walk through changes, you know, swinging and all.

[steve21]

It's definitely a mixture of both.

However, I know that while I was having some fun for myself when I was all just about playing, I got a LOT better when I picked up theory lessons.

[tplyons]

Good knowledge in theory has been my best asset.

[ARCtrooper225]

IMO theory can be useless w/out the technique to apply it
so technique(I clicked on theory by accident though)

[markjazzbassist]

Technique. I know NO theory and yet i get by. I learned by ear and have no need for theory now.

[Matt Call]

For the last 6-7 years, I would have said technique. However, lately, I would say theory. Because what good is technique if you don't fully understand the structure of the music you're playing? Both technique and theory play off of each other and they're equally important. It's just a matter of how far you want to go.

The best players I know didn't study theory until later. They worked on their chops until the lack of theory started to hold them back. It could be a fluke; but I go with it.

[ras1983]

your poll should have a third option: BOTH. i can't see how one can be favoured over the other...

[onewebfoot]

OMG... some have disagreed with the source of my theory, and I acknowledge the wisdom of those who say both. You want decisive commentary from someone who says one or other, whatever it is. in my case, I say theory - being able to play a crazy song. OMG. that assumes technique, in this simplistic investigation.... and infinitely creative repertoire (potentially) for a whole set of crazy songs. thinking on your feet...that's what education has always been about to me (as a former teacher), and you cannot teach everything about thinking on your feet. it has to come from within. but here I go again quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson...... (but it's the potential of that creative venue that motivates for methodical work on technique).

[The BurgerMeister]

Originally Posted by ras1983

your poll should have a third option: BOTH. i can't see how one can be favoured over the other...

+1.

[playibanez]

they are both extremely important

but i think theory is more. becasue you can have technique but if you dont know theory you cant put the technique to good use.

on the other hand if you know theory, then you can play(but not sound as good as someone that has better technique)

my 2cents : /

[Jazz Ad]

Is it better to have a left or right leg ?
You need both to walk.

[j-bass-kreep]

I have decent technique , I'd rather learn more theory .

[BrandonBass]

if u have great technique but no theory, ur not a complete musician...

if u have great knowledge on theory but no technique you're not a musician...

iirc, sheehan,flea and paul mccartney didnt know much theory till later parts of their career