Learn the Basics of Bass Guitar Play
Having the right attitude and perspective is the first step to effectively learn the basics of bass guitar play.
It’s you that’s the problem and not the guitar.
Remember those breakup scenes in books and movies where the person doing the dumping says that he or she’s the one who’s fault and not the person being dumped? That’s usually true and so it is when you’re learning the guitar as well.
When things aren’t working out, many novice guitarists like to blame the guitars they’re using. But that’s just plain illogical. Some guitarists think that it’s easier to learn when using a bass guitar instead of an electric guitar. But that simply isn’t true. The chords will still remain the same. The finger positions required will also remain the same.
So in the end, it’s really all about you and not the guitar.
Start with the basics.
Every standing structure in the world relies on a foundation to remain upright. Without proper foundation, a structure would eventually collapse. The same analogy also applies when you’re learning to play the bass guitar.
There are simply no exceptions to this rule. If you want to play the guitar effectively and the way it’s meant to be then you can’t skip the basics and proceed directly to learning the more advanced techniques. These advanced techniques are still based on fundamental principles of guitar play so how can you learn these techniques without mastering the principles first?
Watch and learn.
Sometimes, certain lessons simply refuse to penetrate your mind no matter how many times you’ve heard your music teacher explain them. You’ve also tried reading about the same technique over and over but your fingers refuse to cooperate.
It’s during these times that you should simply try to watch and learn. Your brain is demanding a visual connection between what you’re reading and what you want it to do. Search for videos on YouTube that show – maybe even teach – the technique you’re trying to learn. Ask your teacher or friend to demonstrate the technique. By then, your mind would have understood exactly what you want it to do and your fingers will follow accordingly.
Play familiar songs.
When learning the basics of guitar play, it’s best to practice songs that you’re already well familiar with. This way, you’ll have an easier time detecting any mistakes you make even without glancing on your tabs or music sheet. Just one wrong note and you’ll know if you’ve used the wrong fret or string.
 |