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A Beginner's Guide to Learning to Play the Bass Guitar

Learning to play the bass guitar is challenging but rewarding. If you are new to the world of bass guitar music, then you have come to the right place. With the right amount of practice, talent, and luck, you can become a famous bass guitarist.

I think that the bass guitar is the Rodney Dangerfield of the music world: it don't get no respect! Most of the time, the spotlight is reserved for lead singers and guitarists. The bass guitar is seen as a supporting instrument at best. However, the bass guitar is a versatile instrument, and most successful rock, metal, jazz, and blues bands feature a bass guitarist.

Have a positive attitude about the bass guitar. Recognize that the bass guitar is typically not a flashy instrument, but it is crucial to the rhythm of any song. It is very rare for a band to have more than one bass player, so a bass guitarist is a unique member of any band.

There are several lessons on this website for beginners. After you have practiced the lessons for beginners many times, you should have a good sense of your own strengths and weaknesses. Now you are ready to take private lessons. Try to meet several tutors and take your time in making a decision - this is a very important choice. Look for a tutor who shares your attitude and interest in the bass guitar. Beware of tutors who give lessons for several different instruments. These tutors are not committed to the bass guitar.

A good tutor should be knowledgeable, have several successful students, and display a positive and nuturing attitude. A tutor who currently plays the bass guitar in a band is great, because such a person will understand the role of a bass guitarist, what it takes for a band to be successful, and current trends in bass guitar music. Decide how much time you want to spend with your tutor. You should have a lesson at least once a week, and the more lessons and practicing you do, the faster you will learn and progress.

Keep practicing and do not get discouraged! Most bass guitarists feel like they have hit a wall from time to time. Sometimes, a slump can last for years, but you will eventually get over it if you keep trying. So start a regular practice routine and find a good tutor. Visit bass-guitar-music.com regularly for lessons, tips, and advice. Best of luck!

The key points of this article are:

  • The bass guitar is a very important instrument for any band and plays a key role in setting the rhythm.
  • Be careful when choosing a tutor. Your tutor will influence your playing style and how fast you progress, so it is important to make a good choice.


Further Reading

Where to Find Bass Guitars for Sale Online - Discusses the best online musical instrument stores for bass guitars and other gear.

Beginner and Cheap Bass Guitars - Find out what you need to know before buying an inexpensive bass guitar.

Bass Guitar Resource Guide - Learn more and improve your bass guitar playing ability with online lessons, books, DVDs, CDs, and private lessons.

Beginner Online Bass Guitar Lessons - No Bass Guitar Required - Start learning the bass guitar right now, without an actual bass guitar, by studying music and notes. If you have a bass guitar, you can use these lessons to begin practicing as well.

Guide to Amplifiers - Learn how amplifiers and other sound equipment make the bass guitar sound louder and better!


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