Recent content by ladysingstheblues

Bass81800, how was this experience for you? What level were you (and the other players) at when you joined? I would imagine it takes a little courage for sure! :)

Very interesting, thanks for the feedback on the classical/jazz angle. By the sounds of it you had a lot of existing theory (scales, modes etc) behind you when you picked up the bass? (From bg) I will need a lot of work in this area over time. Why do you think your focus changed? It is a...

Great reply. Yes, I have considered doing the AMEB Theory Exam. I've been working my way through a Theory Exercise book and plan to tackle Grade 1. I am not sure how I will go with the more involved theory as I can be terrible with memorisation but I am working on it. Thankyou again for going...

Thanks for the advice! Will remember that when I am looking to purchase. Rental is equipped with pickup but I have no use for it just yet. Lots to learn!

Thanks for the feedback. I wonder if pinky strength/shape is a common issue, I will have to look into. Good to know there are exercises to assist.

Lovely stories from all. Seamist, what kind of exercises did you do when you started learning DB with your teacher? What have been helpful tips you've picked up along the way? How has your intonation developed? Also, have you pursued AMEB exams? At the moment I'm finding my pinky finger...

Thanks heaps for the info, Ben. I have organised a teacher who was trained at VCA. Have also visited Puglisi and organised a rental. Loving it so far, lots to learn!

There do indeed seem to be a lot of players in this thread who've taken it up later. Heartening :) for myself, it's typically been a cost factor, also DB are expensive... falling in love with jazz in my mid twenties was a cornerstone, seeing a lot of live jazz and gigs that inspire me...

This is good advice. I'm pleased to report my hand strength is building already. I'm finding it a bit easier to press strings down. I have also been advised I can get in closer with my body/arm to the bass to finger the lower A and E strings. Am curious to see how my strength develops over the...

I really appreciate your detailed response, very informative!

Thanks, bob - I am reading Simandl exercises and will be working hard on getting those basics as second nature (or close) firstly! Good point.

Hi, a question from a total beginner with a new double bass and a couple of lessons under her belt. Bear with me, please! Although I am more interested in jazz, I've enjoyed old timey music live before. A friend of mine suggested a bluegrass/old timey music as an easy starting point with a...

Hi, this is an interesting point. Although I am more interested in jazz, I've enjoyed old timey music live before. A friend of mine also suggested a bluegrass/old timey music as an easy starting point with a lot of of simple 1 5 intervals. I don't have any understanding yet of chord...

I will consult my teacher to look at it for me, and practising building my strength in the meanwhile. Thanks for the thoughtful comments! Oh, I also found a nearby community band that plays jazz standards Etc and accepts people of different levels. Could be a good goal for me to work towards...

Wow, such thoughtful and kind responses. Good to know there are options to set up the bass for easier learning. Very inspiring to hear from those who began later on. I'm really looking forward to improving my ear and developing sound foundation skills... Really looking forward to the social...