What do you practice?

[88bass]

I've been playing bass for a while now, but I no longer improve in my playing. Are there any suggestions for items to practice, different techniques and anything to help me advance my playing skills? Any suggestions would be helpful.

 

[GrumpiusMaximus]

I'm of the view that if you're not advancing in your playing, then it's really time to make a few calls and play with some other people.

In the past, I've felt the same way and it's led me to be uninspired and fall into a musical rut. The best thing I did in those situations was to go out and play with some friends. No pressure, no agenda, just have some fun and try out a few ideas. It doesn't matter if you're playing a few covers or jamming out original material but it will galvanise you - especially if you're a little uncomfortable with the musical situation!

 

[88bass]

That's an excellent idea! I never thought of that, but you are probably right. Thanks for the advice.

 

[ghostfather]

I concur, playing with other people is the best way to improve.
Also, playing along to songs in other genres than you are used to can really stretch you musically.

 

[pfox14]

Ditto to that

 

[Lownote38]

I read all the music I can get my hands on. The harder it is to play, the better. I also agree with the others about playing with different people. I always try to surround myself with musicians who are as good or better than me. That way we learn together, or I learn from them.

 

[nicopiano]

Some jazz study (reading), contemporary pop (Daft Punk, Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga), disco, and old classic rock.

 

[nicopiano]

I read all the music I can get my hands on. The harder it is to play, the better. I also agree with the others about playing with different people. I always try to surround myself with musicians who are as good or better than me. That way we learn together, or I learn from them.

+1

 

[SteveHeissner]

I'm in the same rut So I'll go on YouTube now and then and try to replicate some stuff I see there as a way of stretching a bit.

 

[Slaphound]

This is my latest conquest. I practice this everyday. I am almost as prolific at this as the guy in the vid.

 

[Stormchaser]

Cool rock star faces and wild gyrating.

 

[ZenG]

I practise anything and everything...

Even songs I don't like..

As soon as I happen to hum a song in my head...or even think of a particular song accidentally it gets a workover in my next practise session.

Sometimes I go on YouTube and pick videos and try to play along with them.....I don't worry about every little nuance a lot of times..I'm just trying to figure out roots and structures......

Last night I YouTubed Muddy Waters and spent about an hour jamming with him on blues tunes......

Then YT'd the BeachBoys and sessioned on their "Surfin' USA"live" vid.

Had a blast......