Random thoughts on bass instruction.

[IamGroot]

On vacation last week, I met several working bass players. They had trouble following some things I showed them, and I gently pointed out some technique issues that were roadblocks.

Even if you think you are a hot player, you might want to drop some dough with a really good professionally trained instructor to see where your weak areas are hiding and get a start on fixing them.

If you are a really good player and want to take it to the next level, you might consider seeking out open minded classical players esp. those that double in jazz. Not necessarily bass players. Piano, sax and violin instructors can be eye openers. They can really help with phrasing issues and other.

 

[Malcolm35]

Yep, sooner or later knee to knee instruction is going to be necessary. IMO might as well do it sooner than later - after all kind of bad habits have been formed.

 

[Fred Pucci]

On vacation last week, I met several working bass players. They had trouble following some things I showed them, and I gently pointed out some technique issues that were roadblocks.

Even if you think you are a hot player, you might want to drop some dough with a really good professionally trained instructor to see where your weak areas are hiding and get a start on fixing them.

If you are a really good player and want to take it to the next level, you might consider seeking out open minded classical players esp. those that double in jazz. Not necessarily bass players. Piano, sax and violin instructors can be eye openers. They can really help with phrasing issues and other.

Great advice! Speaking from personal experience, I did fairly well for years being self taught and relying on my ears. With a little more time on my hands at this point in my life, I decided to invest in some type of lessons, and selected Ariane Cap's "Music Theory for the Bass Player". It fixed a few issues with my technique and significantly advanced my knowledge of theory. Some new info, some just verifying and naming things I was already doing. Why did I wait so long?!!

While nothing compares to in-person lessons from a good instructor, this was the next best thing. In some respects, even better, because I couldn't find nearly the level of teacher that Ari is in my somewhat rural location. If anyone is interested, you can find out more at: Videos included with the book (Music Theory for the Bass Player). Worth every penny!