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Need advice for getting better

Discussion in 'General Instruction [BG]' started by Funk'D, Jul 21, 2009.

  1. Jul 21, 2009 #1
    Funk'D

    Funk'D

    Jul 21, 2009
    Well i'm in a band, been playing bass or about a year now, though not as consistently as i'd have liked. I consider myself to be pretty good, can play slapbass kinda well too, but i know NOTHING about music theory...scales, arpeggios, even chords dont mean anything to me.

    I've started writing originals with my band, and i've come up with a few good riffs but they're not really based on anything, and i'm not really sure what to do next, any suggestions?
     
  2. Jul 21, 2009 #2
    Erik_4_Prez

    Erik_4_Prez

    Jun 14, 2008
    Glendora, CA
    Lessons, my friend. Lessons :bassist:

    I've been playing bass about 2 and a half years myself, started taking in-depth lessons for the last 6 months, and it has made me such a better composer and player...
     
  3. Jul 21, 2009 #3
    fearceol

    fearceol

    Nov 14, 2006
    Ireland
    Assuming you have mastered good technique, there are lots of things you can do to keep improving. Learn some basic theory, (www.studybass.com is a great site ), learn to sight read, practice your timing and groove.

    A good teacher can not only teach you, but motivate you, and keep you pointed in the right direction.
     
  4. Jul 21, 2009 #4
    Funk'D

    Funk'D

    Jul 21, 2009
    Haven't really got the time or money for lessons lol, so any tips for independent improvent are much appreciated :D

    Thanks fearceol, ill check the site out
     
  5. Jul 21, 2009 #5
    Erik_4_Prez

    Erik_4_Prez

    Jun 14, 2008
    Glendora, CA
    There are plenty of lessons you can watch and study for free on Youtube as well; no money required.
     
  6. Jul 21, 2009 #6
    Michael Case

    Michael Case

    Jun 4, 2002
    Salt Lake City, Utah
    Stop logging onto talkbass. :bag:
     
  7. Jul 22, 2009 #7
    fearceol

    fearceol

    Nov 14, 2006
    Ireland
    True !! :D From a personal point of view, if I spent more time practicing than posting, I'd be a much better bassist. :bawl:


    This place is addictive !!
     
  8. Jul 23, 2009 #8
    totallyfrozen

    totallyfrozen

    Apr 8, 2006
    Houston, Texas
    LOL'D OUT LOUD!

    That's hilarous! It's true, man, there are so many different opinions around here and alot of bad ideas that this place can mess a player up just as easily as help.

    OP, if you don't have the $$ for lessons then get on Amazon (or someplace like that) and buy some books and DVDs and teach yourself...IF you have the disclipline to work hard at it even when it's boring. Get a metronome and a good set of books (like Hal Leonard, for example) and study them closely. If you don't know anything about theory, scales, chords, arpeggios, etc.; then you've only been figuring things out by ear. That's not going to get you very far.
    Once you start focusing on some serious study, I think you'll find you're not as good as you thought you were.

    With a proper study area (like a room where you can practice undisturbed), a metronome, some bass method books (and DVDs if you like), and alot of dedication and focus you should be able to learn the basics by yourself.

    BTW, we're kidding. You should still keep coming back to TalkBass. There are alot of good players and teachers here who can help you.