Another middle-aged bass newbie - more or less

[Oomworthy]

Hiya.

I picked up a bass again last year in an attempt to get into it properly. I first played in a band at school in 1984 but didn't keep it up (and was never really competent). A chance to get together with a few of the old band prompted me to begin again. 1 year on and I'm still start/stop but have now accumulated 2 more basses - none of which I can really play.

The best way to become a player is to start, so here I am. Again.

Based in Scotland, semi-retired, and discovering the joys of GAS.

Cheers.

 

[Oddly]

Welcome!
Honestly, the best way to become a better player is to stay the heck off these forums and actually practise...but where's the fun in that?

 

[Malcolm35]

Welcome.

 

[Oomworthy]

I should mention that last year the plan was to get myself a few lessons and get the gear set up so that after my knee replacement op I could spend all that convalescing time practicing. Alas, a serious infection put me back in hospital and left me with 6 months of hefty antibiotic treatment via a line directly to my heart (no kidding, they do that!), and frankly I've had a hard time getting back to 'normal'. Now I'm getting 20-30 minutes every day of scales to get my fingers into it, and adding a little something every few days. I'm considering getting a few more lessons but it's a 50 mile round trip each time and I'm a bit broke.

Youtube and persistence are a good combination.

 

[Oddly]

Hope the recovery goes well...having music in your life should help.
As for lessons, as you say, the internet's got so much for that.
Personally I've only ever had one lesson, which I took after about three years of playing in bands!
Obviously I'm an idiot, leaving it that long, as it did pinpoint a couple of technique issues with how I was holding myself and fretting.
That area is one where I feel you really can benefit from a one-on one session.

 

[two fingers]

Welcome!

Wishing you a fast recovery moving forward and glad you found us!