So I'm definitely a newb bass player at 37 years old. I've played drums since I was a teenager but have taken up the bass in the last year and a half or so. I feel like I have a decent understanding of how to play the bass and even grasp a good bit of the stuff that will take years to ingrain in my head and fingertips through lots of practice.
So just like with the drums, I have always been motivated by playing with others. Sitting around practicing alone has its place but it quite frankly bores me to death. Because of that I've been looking desperately for people to jam with and recently got together with some guys doing a few covers. Not earth shattering stuff but fun none the less.
I've found a few bands eager to give me an audition on either drums or bass but none have interested me much and the ones that did were so far above my level I had to decline the invite. I finally found a band locally that had some samples that appealed to me musically as well as what it would allow me to do on the bass (i.e. ride the roots but also branch out a bit where possible now and more as my skills improve). Went to the audition last night only half as prepared as I wished I had been and despite that fact had an absolutely great jam.
I had practiced the first tune they sent me until I knew it cold and they were psyched about that very first thing we played. From that point I felt a lot more relaxed despite my feeling that I was ill prepared. It turned out to be no big deal. They were more than happy to clarify things on the fly while I took notes, and my skills were more up to the task than I had realized. With some quick explanation and note taking we were able to jam every song they've been working on, and have them sound decent minus my minor flubs here and there.
To top it off my GK MB210 sounded great! They couldn't believe it only weighs 34 lbs. and still sounds that big. I barely even pushed it with a moderately loud drummer and two guitars. I kind of bums me out because now I realize I don't need to buy that extension cab I had convinced myself I would need if I got in a band
Not sure this will even go anywhere but it felt good doing it so hopefully they'll give me a call back. Overall it was just a good confidence builder to know that I can step up to the plate and come through in a pinch. I've never really thought much of myself as a drummer despite compliments to the contrary, and felt the same way about my skills as a bass player.
For all of the newbs posting here: Don't underestimate yourself. I'm a complete whimp, so if I can do it anyone can.
