How to best learn the bass guitar?

Question

Im thinking about buying a electric bass and would like to now the best way to teach myself?

Answer 1

In my experience, getting the basics is easy. Just go buy a few books, or DVDs teaching you the basics and you can move from there using tabs from your favorite songs. But moving forward requires lessons. Even if you have motivation, it's hard to set up a learning regiment and stick to it. I got as far as scales (relatively early in the learning cycle) before I got stock and everything I played started sounding the same. I needed a teacher to show me how to leverage scales into walking basslines. From there, it seemed like the whole musical world opened up. So I suggest to get a teacher, even if you don't think you need one. It will help your progression. Good luck!

Answer 2

To me the best way to learn any instrument is to have a good teacher....people who teach themselves seem to be very limited....having weekly lessons is a great way to learn !!! People who can't afford this have gone to the Internet, today they have lots of sites that you can go to...and if you can't afford a teacher this is the next best way to learn....at least you'll be learning correctly and not developing any bad habits. I teach classical and acoustic guitar, so I'm not familiar with any sites for bass guitar.....just go on google and type in learning the bass guitar....and I'm sure there will be numerous sites to go to, check them out and see what you think, good luck to you, bye !!!!!!!!

Answer 3

First of all, patience. It take about three years to learn to play bass, so don't rush yourself. Second, learn the major scale and practice it a lot in order to develop strength and coordination in your fingers. A lot of learning to play is developing this coordination. This takes a while. Third find some tunes you like and want to play. A teacher is good, but not always necessary. If you want a teacher find one you get along with. Otherwise there are lots of books and dvd's available. But take your time, and don't judge your playing until you've played for three years. Also, try singing the lines you want to play and then transfer them to your fingers. Good luck!

Answer 4

There are many self-help resources at your bookstore. Visit your local Borders, Barnes & Noble, or whatever's local. I would recommend browsing through the book yourself if possible instead of just ordering one online.

If no bookstores nearby, however, the above retailers and other online dealers (like amazon.com and overstock.com) allow you to order online.

If money is tight, try your local library. They may have the same materials or can order them for you at no charge.

You probably wouldn't find self-help resources at a music store because they make a profit from lessons and would probably suggest those instead of self-teaching.

Regardless, any musician would agree...be prepared to practice, practice, PRACTICE...if you want to become good!

Hope this helps. Good luck

Answer 5

Get a few books on scales and practice them, secondly a great way to teach yourself is to practice other bands music, get the guitar tabs and do it that way. another way is to get guitar pro and when you create something that sounds cool to you translate it to your instrument