What's my skill level and what should I work on?

[BassistSVT]

I know that at this point in my bass career I'm not great but what I would like to know is what my skill level is right now and if I'm learning at a rate that will bring me to playing well enough to look for gigs more frequently then I do and for bigger things. (Right now i do about 1 every 2-4 months for things such as school dances and birthday parties)

I'm 14 and have been playing bass for about a year and a half. I do mostly punk rock and classic rock so I do mostly pick. I can do slap and finger plucking a little bit too, though. I can read tabs (just like pretty much any guitarist/bassist) treble clef and, though more poorly, bass clef.

So what do you think? Be honest. Also, am I learning at a good rate considering I'm teaching myself? I'd like to know so that I can pick up the pace if I have to. (Considering I play between 4 and 7 hours a night anyway, I don't know what I should do. Also, if you think there's something I should work on, PLEASE tell me!

Thanks guys,
Remi

[Sarah5string]

I wouldn't say it's really about having a 'skill level' as such.... skill is one of those things that can always be improved but learning new things and being happy with your ability, plus the want to improve yourself is much more important than trying to label yourself 'this' good.
Concentrate on pushing yourself to improve.

[CamMcIntyre]

My first question is-are you taking lessons? If not-find someone who is well respected in your area and start.

From what you've said-i would work on learning/reading the bass clef. Musictheory.net is a good place to be for that. Also-since you said that you play classic and punk rock, buy a book of bass lines from some band that you like-use the tab as a crutch if you need it, but work on being able to read the lines based off of the notes.

I don't know if you're playing with a metronome, but if you aren't....start. Having a solid sense of time is important for all styles.

take it easy.

[I am Domokun]

Also, try to avoid using tabs and train your ear. If you want to learn a song, try play along on your bass while listening, trying to pick the notes out yourself. This REALLY helps.