• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Best Online Bass Instruction

C

ChuckRth59

Oct 22, 2013
9
1
Monument, CO
#1
I have been playing bass for around 9 years or so, and I currently play in my church worship band. I have never had any formal instruction (lessons, etc.) and have only read various bass music books to help me to get where I am now. I am feeling a sense of frustration in that while I can easily play to chord charts as is the case currently, I really have no idea of where the music is going without the benefit of those charts. Is there any suggested online training that will explain things so I can clearly understand why and how the music is put together? I have looked at TMBG and while it is good instruction, and provides a lot of theory, I just don't seem to be able to get the answers I am looking for. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
 
#2
ChuckRth59 said:
I just don't seem to be able to get the answers I am looking for.
Click to expand...

This remark would suggest that a good teacher would be the best way to proceed. Learning from books and the internet is OK to a point, but you cant beat one to one lessons.

As for the TMBG, AFAIK there is a kind of back up forum open to all who purchase the DVD's. This allows people to ask particular questions.

Perhaps the good people here on TB could answer some of your questions if you'd like to ask ?
 
#3
fearceol said:
This remark would suggest that a good teacher would be the best way to proceed. Learning from books and the internet is OK to a point, but you cant beat one to one lessons.

As for the TMBG, AFAIK there is a kind of back up forum open to all who purchase the DVD's. This allows people to ask particular questions.

Perhaps the good people here on TB could answer some of your questions if you'd like to ask ?
Click to expand...

+1

this sounds like a job for a real person, whether in person or via skype
 
#5
I looked on the map-surely there is someone in Denver or Colorado springs who could bring you up to speed on theory,
chord progressions, that sort of thing. Look to see if there is
a music school with a full time bass instructor. You can check out craigslist and might get lucky and find somebody good--but beware of someone who says they give lessons on a big long list of instruments--the tuba, accordion, cello, guitar, flugelhorn, etc.
 
#6
It can be just as tricky finding a good bass instructor in real life as it is on the internet. Though, not impossible in either case. Online would definitely be cheaper. A lot cheaper! With online there are also the added benefits of taking the lessons on your time, no driving and watching the lesson(s) as many times as you need. Finding one with a structured educational trajectory is key with either way you decide to go, though. I hope this helped!
 
#8
I think Roy's TMBG combined with the three volume Hal Leonard Bass Method by Ed Friedland is a very potent combination. If you master everything contained in those two curriculums and still feel deficient, then a private instructor would be my next move.
 
#9
ChuckRth59 said:
I have looked at TMBG and while it is good instruction, and provides a lot of theory, I just don't seem to be able to get the answers I am looking for. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Click to expand...

Do you actually HAVE the TMBG or have you just "looked" at it somewhere? If you start this program from scratch, it is an amazing instructional tool. There is plenty of opportunity for support if you have questions while using the program. Roy Vogt himself has answered my questions. I like it so much I quit my lessons with the local guy & saved $. In addition, I am also plugging along on the Hal Leonard books.

Prior to this, I was mostly learning random scales and tabs to favorite songs. Nothing made sense. I realize now that it's because I was lacking the foundation.

I highly recommend TMBG. I love the loop library that enables you to practice what you learn. Can't say enough.
 
#15
Trayster2 said:
Do you actually HAVE the TMBG or have you just "looked" at it somewhere? If you start this program from scratch, it is an amazing instructional tool. There is plenty of opportunity for support if you have questions while using the program. Roy Vogt himself has answered my questions. I like it so much I quit my lessons with the local guy & saved $. In addition, I am also plugging along on the Hal Leonard books.

Prior to this, I was mostly learning random scales and tabs to favorite songs. Nothing made sense. I realize now that it's because I was lacking the foundation.

I highly recommend TMBG. I love the loop library that enables you to practice what you learn. Can't say enough.
Click to expand...

I actually did go ahead and buy the TMBG series. I had it once before, but did not realize the benefit of following through with all 20 lessons. I am able to play off charts in church, but I feel that in order to be able to play better, I really need to understand theory. I am giving this my best effort and I am confident that I will improve. Thanks for your input!
 
#16
ChuckRth59 said:
I actually did go ahead and buy the TMBG series. I had it once before, but did not realize the benefit of following through with all 20 lessons. I am able to play off charts in church, but I feel that in order to be able to play better, I really need to understand theory. I am giving this my best effort and I am confident that I will improve. Thanks for your input!
Click to expand...

Thanks for giving us a chance! You can email me with questions here or via TMBG's Thunder Row and I'll try to answer. I'm pretty busy so it may take a couple of days, but I would be glad to help if I can.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back