Learning to play an instrument is something many young people dream of doing. They get their inspiration from their favorite bands that continually produce the kind of music they love so much. One of the instruments that you may learn how to play, is the bass guitar. In this article, you will learn in six simple lessons how to play the instrument comfortably and consistently.
The bass guitar is a stringed instrument that is played using the fingers and thumb by plucking, tapping, popping or thumping. The bass guitar is comprised of four strings. Each string is tuned to a different note namely E, A, D and G. Other parts include the frets and amplification facilities.
You can play the bass guitar either standing or sitting. The important thing is that you position yourself properly to avoid injury to your back or shoulder. Whatever position you take whether sitting or standing maintain a straight back. Never slouch. Also always, use a guitar strap so that the shoulders carry the weight of the guitar. Adjust the strap appropriately, so that the guitar falls comfortably across your chest. As you prepare to play, use your hand to fret and grip the neck of the guitar gently.
The playing techniques in use today are fretting, plucking and picking. Fretting requires that you perform certain actions that produce distinct notes on your guitar. It is important that you keep your fingernails trimmed. Long fingernails are an obstruction as they limit your ability to hold down the string completely. Avoid using the tip of your finger to hold down the string. A larger finger pad is more effective for the job. In the beginning, holding down the large bass strings may prove difficult due to the pressure exerted on the fingers. However, with constant practice, the fingers become stronger and one is able to fret easily.
After developing some skill in playing the bass guitar, it is now time to learn a few playing notes. One of the easiest notes to play is the E note. You produce this note by plucking the fourth string. To produce the other notes namely A, D and G pluck the lower strings. You will realize that the notes produce a higher sound. Repeatedly, play each string. Do this consistently until you are able to produce distinct individual notes.
After leaning where each note on the board is located it is now time to organize these notes in to playing scales. What is a scale? A scale is a group of notes that are worked together to produce a distinct sound or feeling. An example of such a scale is the chromatic scale. The chromatic scale is the most common scale in use in the western world. It runs in half steps from one corresponding note to the other. The major playing scale is also popular among musicians. The minor pentatonic scale is popular with rock and roll and blues.
The next lesson the beginner ought to learn is the playing pattern. The bass guitar player must understand the chords. The bass guitar player’s contribution is achieved through framing in respect to the root note. The bass player should also have a basic understanding of the root note. They act as the basis for development of the chord. Other lessons that the beginner should be acquainted with are rhythms. You will achieve this through listening to music and playing with other people. Upon mastering the rhythms, the beginner now only needs continuous practice.
Learn More Including How To Finger Tap With Your Bass here
Learn More Including How To Finger Tap With Your Bass here
