Win a Free Copy of Decoding the Bass Guitar!
Video Problems? Try it here.
As I mentioned in the video above, I’m giving away 3 free copies of Decoding the Bass Guitar on DVD.
All you need to do to enter to win is:
1) In the comments section below, please post your #1 question about the bass guitar and,
2) You must also tell me why you need the Decoding the Bass Guitar DVD.
NOTE: This isn’t about financial reasons, but about why Decoding the Bass Guitar will finally help you reach your goals of playing the bass.
So just follow those 2 steps and I’ll announce the 3 winners on Thursday, June 24th.
This contest ends Wednesday, June 23rd at midnight.
Good luck, and I look forward to hearing from you.
To your bass-playing awesomeness,
Jonathan Boettcher
PS – The contest closes at midnight Wednesday, June 23rd. No Exceptions.
So make sure to post your entry below.
I’ll read each and every entry and pick the winners for Thursday.
UPDATE: Contest is now closed – the winners are Cindy Masino, AJ, and Kermit Hale. Congratulations guys!
Hi, I play guitar. Many years ago used to play the bottom strings to simulate a bass. Here my answers:
1)How should I start learning playing the bass? Improvisation?
2)Need some basics
hello there,my #1 question about the bass would be ,how does the bass hold down the beat (or groove) and allow for such freedom of expression of the other instuments? (2)- the reason that I need “Decoding the Bass Guitar on DVD” would be to gain a better understanding of the basics(which everything in life seems to come down to),the theory behind the driving force of the machine(the band),which I believe that Jonathon has the knowledge & ability to deliver. As well learning a strong foundation with ease of comprehension is of the upmost importance to me,in a non-intimidating way -provides a sense of comfort and confidence.
How can I apply 11ths and 13ths to my bass (not the fish) playing?
I need the DVD because I’d like to see upper chordal extensions and substituted chords as they apply to the bass (not the fish). I realize that fingering may depend on the chord progression. Thanks, Paul
1) Should my approach to playing Bass differ from my guitar playing?
2) To secure a gig with my favorite local band that already has 2 guitar players!
i play guitar and bass 1: how do i start sounding more like a bass player and less like a guitarist when i switch to bass? 2:being self taught, i need some fundamental game plan for approaching the bass as an instrument all it’s own. thanks, dan! i would love to actually win something for a change! michael jablonowski
I’ve been trying to learn to get out of this !@#$%^& rut for close to to years and its
just time to move on
I think I got the fingering down, its a matter of progressing that got me stuck.
1. What are the best ways to mute the strings when playing different styles, like a)metal style with a pick, b) typical blues style with index & middle fingers, and c)funk style with thumb/slap?
2. I am always looking for ways to improve my bass playing.
I would love to have this because I need all the help I can get and I enjoy all your other video lesson etc thanks it peaople like you that keep us going
I like the way you explain your l-4-5 and I have been playing for about 45 years I keep the time and nothing fancy, but I have made a living doing this. Well I had a stroke in 1999 and it slowed my bass playing way down, I have most of the fundamental of the fret board, but I just cannot seem to put it all together to make interesting bass solos, which I stay away from. I would like to say I put it all together before I die, that would mean I finally accomplished something in my life. I enjoy your videos online as I have a limited income so keep sending them they help.
Keep up the good work. My question to you is I taught my self when I was younger and still keep learning. I enjoy watching you play the guitar which I never could master. Well my question is when you playing a progression like 1-6-4-5-1 how do you figure out what note from the previous chord do you pick to go into the next change, and the pentatonic scale entrigs me, so could you explain why there is only 5 pentaton scales and is it be cause there are five notes to work off of why are there only certain pentatonic I could use. Thanks just for reading this Bill
I started playing bass in the late 60′s. like most folks at that time we learned phoneticly…note by note…moving the needle on the old phonograph and matching the sounds and notes. I would like to learn more about scales and the theory of music as pertaining to the bass. There’s a lot more than just hitting a note in the same key of the song.
1. how can I memorize all the scales
2. I started playing bass at age 14 back in 1978 I took lessons & was in a few bands & played by ear & from what the guitar players showed me.. then I took a 25 year “vacation” from playing in 1983 & in 2008 decided it was time.. I am where I left off & would love to relearn the instrument I love.. & regret taking so much time off from playing
Hi, I’ve been playing the bass more then a year, all self taught and the problem is now I got to a stage of playing where just playing something by tabs or chords isn’t satisfying enough and on the other hand I don’t have too much theory knowledge to improvise that well. I’d find the book very useful to give me a basic from where to start learning some theory because the biggest problem I’m having is that I don’t know where to start of. I think a good thing about a book is that it’s organized well (at least it should be
) and therefore you know directly where to start from and what follows afterwords. I love all kinds of music and I’m also playing the acoustic guitar for a few months now and I play my little cousin’s synth (the 2octave toy-ish one) and I look foreward to play any other instrument since I really loved music my whole life and it’s a big thing in my life, listening and playing it.
Kinda got lost in all that so… My question would be Will you teach me the basics of music theory? and as for the second one: all what’s mentioned above
Best regards, keep up the good work mate!
I have a bass and only a very basic skill, alternating bass, no skill in intervals, runs, transitions etc. From my decscription you can see that I could use some instruction.
I would like to play better…need some help.
1. My major question, as a long-time guitar player, is: what is the best place to start to learn bass guitar? I’ve seen a lot of information, books, DVDs, etc., with many different approaches. I don’t have a lot of spare time, so I need to know how to “cut to the chase.” (I know there are no shortcuts, but I would like to be able to start playing right away, so that I can be motivated to keep learning!)
2. I am trying to “revive” my musical career in “middle age” so I need a copy of “Decoding the Bass Guitar” to help me get “jump-started” on the bass. As a long-time guitar player, I have always wanted to take up the bass, but need a “quick-start” but thorough approach to learning the bass guitar. Thanks!
how do you conected scales
“Decoding the Bass Guitar on DVD” would be to gain a better understanding of the basics(which everything in life seems to come down to.
I would love to have this because I need all the help I can get and I enjoy all your other video lessons.
Should my approach to playing Bass differ from my guitar playing?
Having just recently picked the bass up after 29 years off (16 to 45), I’m more into Jazz now as rather than Rock as before.
My question is about Jazz improvisation. Anyone can play a scale with a somewhat Jazzy feel but what is the key to adding the unpredictable and alluring twist that every solid Jazz bassist has mastered?
I need “Decoding the Bass Guitar” because I’ve very analytical and the title term “Decoding” tells me that my musical and analytical ability combined with the decoding knowledge will equal success!
Hi,I’ve been playing for a few years and it seems like I can mimick bass lines from songs but I cannot come up with my own on the fly.My goal is to be more fluent and tasteful without over playing.
Have been playing guitar for many years. I would like to learn to play Bass as my grandson plays. Playing bass would be an extension to my musical knowledge. Having looked at other lesson’s you’ve offered indicates you have the know how and the ability to teach what you know.
Cheers
Einar
Hi there!! I have played bass since I was in junior high school. Due to the fact I was trained classically on the violin, and was trained on piano for ear training. I needed to learn the bass clef in order to be well rounded in in my violin playing. In the process it was a self taught instrument. The music teacher bought an Ampeg Electric Bass, as there was no tuba players in the orchestra and I replaced a whole section of tubas with this bass.
My concern has always been the fact I was self trained on the instrument, and it eventually led to my playing guitar, steel guitar and now the dobro.
My question is, what did I miss in the process of my self instruction? What bad habits had I developed in the process?
To further my education and become even a more well rounded player, I feel that your program would open doors, shed some light on my past experiences, and allow me to strive ahead.
I really need a focal point of instruction to cement what I have learned over the years, and to allow me to feel accomplished when I do play, and play with more authority
need to improve my walking bass line ability and improvising skills.
I have played guitar and bass for many years. I played bass in the last band I was with for 12 years. I think I am in the rut you mention and would love to keep improving. I am really betting that decoding the bass guitar may get me through the rut.
1) How do I easily pick out the appropriate root (bass) note from guitar chords to be played on the accompanying bass part?
2) I hope that the Decoding the Bass Guitar DVD will help me better understand how the guitar and bass work together so that I can compose better songs and become more proficient at improvising during jam sessions.
I’m a guitar player but, I’ve always wondered why good Bass Players enhanced the sound of their groups and every other Bass player was just there???.
If your new course is what you say it is, I’M IN NEED OF THIS!!!
HELP ME OUT!!!
I would like to be a better soloist on bass as well as having a better walking bassline.
I desire to do bass solo’s and walking basslines
I have always loved to hear a good base player, and I would like to be able to play base.
Hello Mr. JB. I always Believed that there was a code to the bass.I would really like the chance to experience of learning from you. thanks Bernard
can a bass replace drums in a band to keep the timeing and the tempo together?. I play guitar and I would like to learn to play the bass for our new band. Thanks Walt.
Hi mate,
In my previous life ( before guitars), I was a rock drummer in various bands and, like you should, worked very closely with the bass man. In the back of my head I’ve listed “things to do” and one of ‘em is to learn bass properly. I normally use a 6 string guitar to emulate bass (just to antagonise myself !)Learning from the ground up would be great !
1.Hello Jonathan-Is it common for a song to be heavily based around the bass and drum groove? 2.I’m hoping that the Decoding the Bass Guitar DVD can help me better understand the importance of slowing it down when I’m practicing and fret board building, to help me get to know all the notes on the fret board- Objective and Instructive!!!:) Thanks for the opportunity!!!:)
1. For playing bass guitar…pick or fingers?
2. I can play almost any song on the radio by ear, but I don’t know why I’m playing what I’m playing! This dvd would certainly help me understand the method behind my madness! Thanks!
I play guitar and want to learn to play bass. Our bass player in our praise band is leaving and I may want to play bass
Will this help me to understand the timing better, and figure the nuances of bass better? I’ve always felt that there has to be a straighforward logical answer to this question.
Im not getting any younger, and after considerable trial and error on my part (in many hours of attempts, and circling fleeting success) I think it’s time for somthing that works.
Sincerely,
Charlie P.
I am an experienced guitar player and am just starting to explore the bass so I have lots of questions.
I need the subscription because I plan on teaching local kids how to play the bass.
I have played the guitar for a while and would love to learn to play the bass. I believe that the decoding the bass dvd would give me the information i need to get going on the bass. Thanks
i simly love the bass.
I want to be a better player
1st: How can I consistently keep good bass runs through key changes?
2nd: My father taught me some Guitar, but playing the Bass has always been my dream and I want to learn to play it to the bast of my ability.
Hi Jonathan,
I took up guitar about six years ago, because I love music so much, & my husband already played the bass (for about 30yrs but never a formal lesson). I just wanted to play some Reggae, but now we play a wide variety of songs (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sublime, SRV etc). I just puchased a “flee” bass Jr. scale, we continue to try and sound more professional although just amatures, you seem to have some valuable information to share, your DVD looks interesting!!
, and have quite a lot of fun when doing that!
i think bass players always look so sexy. i’ve been plunking the guitar for 35 yrs. and i still stink! maybe a venture into bass would spark me???
I just love your teachings and have learned so much from hope to win
blackie
While in college at “Full Sail” (recording arts program) I’ve found many interesting coralations in chord progressions and the associated Bass patterns. Would you share some of your favorites with us?
I feel that I’ve hit a wall in my Bass playing knowledge, your DVD could just be the ticket to advancing my “working knowledge”
Thanks,
Josh Law
I enjoy playing the bass when I have the chance. I don’t know much about it but its fun and an important part of music
1. Why, in most modern music,are the Bass lines mainly used as rhythm to provide a foundation for the guitar instead of being used as point and counterpoint as you might see in classical music such as Beethoven, Bach and so on?
2. I would like to have the DVD because the Bass theory would allow me to see and understand music across a broad scope and range,like looking at the Bass and Treble clefs simultaneously
when observing written piano music.
1. I, IV, V is great but I am looking to understand the rest of the fills through the different chord progressions. What is the easiest way to learn these and the commonality of theory to go with them for an understanding.
2. I have played music for over 45 years and I have decided to learn to play the bass, if this program works to teach an old dog new tricks I’m for it Help!
1) Can learning to play bass (and understanding music theory as it applies to the bass)help me be a better guitar player?
2) I’ve been intrigued by the bass for years, but I’m mainly trying to learn the guitar. I would like the dvd to help me learn the bass for three reasons: 1) so I can record bass tracks to help me as I record guitar tracks; 2) so I can better understand the notes in the I-IV-V structure as a way to improve my rhythm guitar playing; and 3) I just might turn out to be a good enough bass player to play in a band.
My #1 question is: Is using a fuzzy bass pick really necessary for fast music, or can fast picking effects be done with just the fingers?
I could benefit from the CD because right now I am playing for my church group and I do not know a lot about the bass guitar; in addition, I have been asked to write some music for a video and I could really use a great sounding bass line.
1) Is the primary (but not the only) purpose of the bassist to keep the root note of a chord progression emphasized?
2) I am hoping that your course will help me to understand what the base player is trying to do, so that I can blend solo or rhythem guitar styles with the bass part. Might even like to try to play the bass
I can pick out tunes on the radio or CD’s, but that is just copy cat playing whis is OK, I would like to know how to improvise by finding the root of the song.
I can benifit from the Bass Lessons by learning my way around the bass neck and hopefully learning how to pickup new songs quicker and being able to improvise at local jam sessions.
1)How do you decide when to play a lower run versus a higher run?
2) Playing bass has added dynamics to my playing that just strumming a guitar never could. Now I have been better at getting around the fretboard of the guitar, thanks to your help.
I KNOW I CAN LEARN THE BASS BETTER
Q 1. need help to play “walking bass”
Q 2need the bass decoding dvd to understand bass theory .
I hope this will make me a better player
1. In playing The Bass Guitar, is it easier to play and/or does it sound better using a pick or fingers? 2. I believe in your ability to help me understand the scales and chords on the bass fretboard. Thank You Very Much!
I want to teach young (school age) bass players how to be the best they can be- to become artists and not just feel like they are making up the numbers on stage!
What kind of scales or chords are unique to the bass in the sense that a guitarist can not emulate them, if any?
What kind of scales or chords are unique to the bass in the sense that a guitarist can not emulate them, if any?
I want the decoding bass theory because I am a guitarist that quite often finds himself thrown as a last-minute bassist. So if I can understand the relationship between the two instruments, I hope that it will convince me to play bass more often, and it’ll improve how well I can transition between the two.
I don’t know much about this bass playing stuff as I have never really played one, it looked to complicated and scared me off. But I often wished that I knew how to play one!
hi!
i’ve been playing bass for a little while, but am completely self taught & know i could use a few tips & tricks. the last year or so i’ve been trying to learn how to play regular guitar- again, teaching myself, but there’s always that stump in the road…
your course sounds and looks like the right path around the stump.
brandon
me interesa aprender bass gracias por su ayuda
mi direccion es 522 N. 6th.St. Donna Texas 78537
want to win the bass cd thank you jacques
#1 I need to learn to make the chords.
#2 I need the DVD so I can practice the Bass in the correct way. I have tried the guitar and mandolin and came up lacking. I hope to learn to play the 4 string acoustic Bass.
Thanks Joe Hales
I played bass many years ago but changed to accoustic guitar I would really like to learn to play the bass again as this is still my favorite instrument
1) Whats your approach to improvising a bass line for other people to play over?
2) I enjoy making and recording my own music but I can never make a decent bass line so I would like to learn more about how they work and how to make it sound good
I’d like to be able to play the Bass Guitar with Confidence.
i play rythem guitar and iam looking for a new challange,this looks great.
I have had a 73 Fender P bass for the last 18 years and would like to learn the basics as well as to be able to sit in at Jams where now I just play Rythm Guitar or Drums.
Hello ,
Decoding the Bass Guitar on DVD” would help to gain a better understanding of the basics of bassplaying.
Sinds a few years I play bassgitar in our band en they say that a play to much like a gitarplayer.I Like to play less and sound more
1. Where to start? 2. need some input
Whould like to start playing by the theory instead of just using the ear….
It whould be fun to learn the basic principle of the Bass
I love the sound of a bass guiter.
I would like to play one……..
Hi
I do not know how to play guitar yet. I only started to learn the guitar. So I need all the help I can get, thanks
i think i would improve my understanding of the songs better if i new the bass and how it works frank
Jeg er begyndt at sille bas for nylig; men jeg mangler rutine – så jeg håber at finde noget mere at læne mig op ad; ligesom 1,4,5 er et godt hit – hi TR
I really don’t have a question about the bass guitar, but reason i would like to have the DVD is that I’ve played bass for years and I’m stuck on the basic style of plunking the strings, like your basic counrty beat. I would like to learn more about playing different beats and styles, I am also teaching my 15 year old son how to play and want him exceed what I can do.
Thank you for the chance to win one of your bass DVDs……Tim
I am a beginner and want to learn as much as I can, about playing the bass guitar.
Hi man I just wont to thank you. Let me explain I have had a back problem witch has left me with numbness dawn my left side in particular my left arm and hand after finding your sight on the net I was inspired to learn the guitar and I have bean using this as a form of physio therapy and I am happy to say that it has bean a grate help so much so that even my Doctor is surprised by the progress I am making I hope to get back to work in the next 6 months and wen I do I will defiantly be buying your full guitar cores. I am interested in your base cores as a friend lent me his 2nd base and I am fascinated by it and the similarity with the guitar and I fella to become a good guitar player you must know and understand the base ( the backbone of the band ) and the best way to do that is if you learn to play. all the best for now and thank you for your sight and free lessens I am looking forward to being able to afford your full coarse
Why do base players want to play drums and vise versa? Hah! I know, it’s the rhythm, beat and punch both enjoy so much. I like it too but have never ventured that far yet. My tenor sax takes me to melody, my mandoline takes me to sounds I can’t get on my guitar but I seem to be stuck on improvising melodies and I want to learn to walk the fretboard with rhythm and chording on the base with sounds that move the soul.
1 – How can I let myself get out of my comfort zone, which is to simply play within the same scale every time I pick up my bass?
2 – I need this for the exact reason I asked my question. I feel extremely comfortable playing funk and playing the same style. When I pick up the bass at home I just go straight into that comfort zone. This can’t be good, I need help!
I feel that this DVD could really help me to become a more versatile bassist.
YEARS…it took years to fully understand the guirar and bass, then I came across this (Scott’s)site, and learned more scales in 2 weeks than i have in 20+ years of playing, I also learned the relative minors of the Circle of Fifths…and the blues, dont forget about the blues…simply amazing.
Thanks Scott!
How do I get more of what i like from playing the bass guitar?
Because the email about the bass came at a time when I was thinking about enrolling in a school to study bass but maybe this would be a better option for me, at least for now.
Are scales necessary? I have been playing guitar now for many years and have tried to move over to Bass on numerous occassions. My Bass playing is totally by air and can be sole inventive. I need to have the correct path to follow to achieve satisfying Bass playing.
Have played guitar for a few years, your I IV V video was very helpful – I have fooled around with the bass, understanding theory and the runs would be great. Thank You.
My #1 question regarding the Bass is about transitions and fills, there seems to be some fairly standard “riffs” that I’ve found elusive
I’m a disabled 45 year old man who’s played on and off since I started learning Maleguana on the Acoustic Guitar at age 6. I’ve played in a number original material bands strangely enough as the “Bass Player”. I ended up just playing Rhythm Guitar on the Bass with a big pick…LOL
I now record my original music in my small home recording studio using the effects on my POD X3 Live to make an Acoustic Guitar sound kind of like a bass…LOL I intended to purchase another bass to round out my gear.
1) How do some folks make it look so easy, so relaxed, when I struggle just to make sure I’ve got enough pressure on the strings not to get “razz”?
2) I need a copy of this DVD because I need all the help I can get not to suck as currently!
For years ive been playing in the church band and my bass playing is still the same, nothing has changed for years. I want to change that and hope to get this dvd so i can stop playing the same stuff all the time and learn new techniques.
Hope to hear from you soon.
I’ve played guitars for 52yrs., and spent a lot of time travelling doing gigs with dance bands, however, though I’ve played lead;rhythm,uke,and steel I,ve never played bass. My fingers aren’t as reliable now and have been asked to do some charity work with a small group who need a bassist and I would love to, not only to complete the set of string instruments I can play, but mainly to give back, free of charge, to those less fortunate than myself a little of the pleasure music has given me.
Long time guitar player, bought bass recently and would like help unlocking the instrument to get up to speed playing ASAP. Also interested in the guitar version for me and my kids, so hoping to win the bass version to convince me to buy the guitar version also! Thanks for a chance to win! I guess my first question would be how are guitar and bass similar, and how are they different?
I am age 60-have played guitar since age 12. I’ve never even picked up a base guitar. Need a new challenge so I’ve decided to learn to play a base guitar.
I play the guitar and requinto (a small guitar for mainly lead)will the Bass guitar lesson you offer help me understand the guitar better?
I have two grandson who are learning to play guitar. I would like to have one of them learn the Bass.
I am age 60-have played guitar since age 12. I’ve never even picked up a base guitar. Need a new challenge so I’ve decided to learn to play a base guitar.
I’ve played drums for 45 yrs. so I have the timing and the groove. Just need the theory to express what I feel. Thanks
I am so stuck…just need the help.
1). How can I get beyond the box patterns I’m stuck in and get into a mjore creative groove?
2) I need Decoding bass I as I haven’t had time to do it myself and don’t have timed for lessons.
I find learning the Bass was easy at first but am finding there is more to it than most people think. I want to learn how to get past the begining. I am 67 years old and am looking forward to many more years of playing in my Church and Opry Shows.
Thanks for your help.
1) How can I apply what I used in my classical guitar playing to play the bass well?
2) I’d love Decoding the Bass as I believe you’ve got a lot to share with me that would speed up the learning process and get me playing like a pro in no time!
1 – How different does your playing style have to be if you move from an acoustic guitar to a bass? Or are they somewhat similar in technique?
2 – I’m an aspiring musician who plays acoustic guitar and is learning electric, but I’d also like to learn the bass. Someone tried teaching me how to play it, but it wasn’t working out. I know this dvd will serve as a medium for explaining everything I need to know in order to play the bass. Also, a friend of mine has been longing to learn how to play the bass for almost a year now, but he hasn’t acted on it, despite my prodding, because he’s unsure of what he’s doing. I’m sure that if he watches this dvd with me, he’ll acquire the motivation he needs to finally pursue his dream. Plus, he won’t be lost, because it will teach and explain to him everything he needs to know.
have never tried to play the bass , but the way you teach the lesson should be fun . what is the differences between a 4 syring bass and a 6 strings bass? thank you
#1. The bass and drums to me are the heart beat of a song. Because I’ve been playing guitar for many years I tend to want to fill up every break with runs and leads on the bass. How do you just play what needs to be played with out going crazy and still really get into the music.
#2. I’ve been playing guitar for years. I’ve been asked to join another band and they need a bass player. I believe I can do the job but I would really like to have some basic understanding of the bass guitar.
I’ve been playing around with the guitar for about two years now and recently someone gave me an electric bass guitar. Is it true that bass players are much more in demand and thus get more work?
I almost forgot, I need the dvd as I have nothing at all related to the bass guitar at this point. Will my guitar dvd’s be any help at all with bass playing? Thanks again!
1.)Can’t play Bass
2.) I want your DVD
1 Have been playing guitar for many years but find that when I do recordings of specific SA Music, there is not always a bass player handy that understands this type of music.
2. I do most of the bass inputs myself allthough it is guite basic. I would like to understand the bass playing possibilties and scales better and anything that can speed up this learning process, will be greately appreciated, as at age 60 and still fully busy in the “Rat Rce”, I don’t have time for lessons.
I have trouble keeping the rhythm on slower songs and also need to know more about runs between the chords.I am really struggling.
I am 72 ans started learning guitar just over a year ago due small hands and short fingers, I find it difficult to play other then open chords Basrre chords are out. I have found that picking is easier for me so i am trying other instruments. like the ukelele, Tenor guitar, all of which have 4 strings. Bass will also be included in this group and need to learn more of how it is tuned, etc.
#1 Everyone says going from guitar to bass is easy is it?
#2 My goal is to write a song and play all the instruments on it I’m already a drummer I have been playing guitar for almost a year and I need to add the bass but I have no idea of how to play so I need this instruction.
It would be helpful in some kind of way to know more than I do about something I don’t know enough about. This DVD would certainly help me figure it all out.
My question is two-fold: why do some bass guitars have frets and some don’t, and why do some bass guitars have more than four strings?
#1: I’d love to learn how to tell what notes I can play on the bass when presented with just a chord name, and to become comfortable with where those notes are on the fret board.
#2: I need the DVD to help me become a bass player who can ‘play well’ with others.
Thank you for this opportunity! Ron
I play keyboards and organ and have been fascinated with the bass for many years. I have wanted to learn to play for over 20 years but have been somewhat intimidated by it. How should I approach learning the frets, scales, fingering, paterns, and etc. I had a bass over 23 years ago and tried to learn by watching other bassists, but that was unproductive.
1. What’s the key to fitting a killer bass solo into a song?
2. I want to teach young (school age) bass players how to be the best they can be- to become artists and not just feel like they are making up the numbers on stage!
1) How do you use the right hand fingers to play the strings? When do you use the thumb and which fingers do you use on which strings?
2) I have purchased your other courses and found them helpful so, since I want to learn bass guitar because it carries the groove of the music, I want the consistentcy of your instruction on over to the bass.
I dont know much about these things.
1. How does the Bass differ from the guitar method.
2. I am trying to learn more about the bass in order to decide which instrument to take up.
The whole band moves around the Bass – Without it the sound is a little thin and somewhat tinny.
Our garage band at home has vocals & keyboard (courtesy of my daughter), drums (played by my older son) guitar (played by me)- and no real Bass because my younger son is only just starting to pick up a note here and there. If this course can teach a 12-yr old how to play the Bass then it’s definitely for me.
i need that free dvd,cuz i wanna be a real bassguitar player
1) I have played bass for years and play in a band of long time players, but would like to progress beyond my ‘play by ear’ technique.
2)I am using a black diamond pick on some songs and am enthusiastic about learning more–I love the bass. Other than that I am no more deserving than anyone else
1. Other than 4 strings and an octave how does bass differ from a 6 string.
2. I know nothing about playing bass but feel somebody should play one when a buddy and I get together for our weekly jam. A copy of Decoding the Bass will get me started.
I need to be able to put Bass lines on my Loops and songs [GNX4 workstation]
What is the best way to find and remember how to find your starting note that will be the key you will be playing in? I need to understand the fret board and how to move from one key to another key that a song is being played in smoothly.
Thanks for being willing to help others learn.
Why does a bass have only four strings?
I need to colour up my playing more as I’m getting tired of hearing myself!!! I need to learn more technical aspects of playing: muting, slapping, etc.
I have been playing guitar (learned from watching others most of the time when around musicians). I am one of seven kids and we didn’t have any money for lessons. Now I am older and still don’t have any money but love music. I play guitar (some) and my boy plays bass but is 14 hours away and I only see him for a couple of days at a time and seems we never have any time for music anymore. I have always loved the bass and thought that maybe I could actually accomplish this with your help.
Have been a bassist for many years.
Have felt “stuck” somewhat, these last few years.
Have worked primarliy as an “ear” musican although I do know the notes on a bass clef.
Want to expand and I have been sure the only way to do this is to put all of the pieces of “theory” which I do have handles on; together, so that my “Theory” becomes One Piece rather than Several Pieces! An entire PIE as opposed to slices of a pie.
My ears are fine. my theory needs just a little something…
This may well be it…
Thank You
1 I got my Grandson who lives with myself and my wife a guitar for X-Mas this year.He was a bit overwelmed so my wife thought it might help him if I learned to play also. We now have 3 Guitars and 3 more Grandchildrin learning to play. We now have more players than guitars and are looking for a bass to help round out the sound. Having a great time and really enjoying all the great tips from your site. Thanks for all the help.
2 Just having a great time and wanting learn more. Again thanks for all your hard work from all of us.
1 Other than 4 strings and an octave how does bass differ from a 6 string.
2 I just need to improve daily
I would just like to learn about the bass guitar and how it works. I think learning the bass would expand my musical knowledge of the guitar as well. I play with an alternative worship band at our church and we have been unable thus far to come up with a volunteer to play bass. So, I’m thinking I might give it a shot since some of our singers can play a 6 string!! But I need to learn it first..
1. I closely watch bassists and for most, it seems they play so effortlessly–even on songs they don’t know or haven’t practiced. How is it they can play and sound so professionally when they’ve not heard the song before?
2. I dabble a little with the guitar, but have always felt a strong attraction to the bass. It seems like it should be relatively easy to learn some of the patterns that would allow me to play, but I don’t quite get it. I’ve found that like with the guitar, things that were very foreign to me at one time now make sense. I’m hoping that something similar will happen regarding the bass, but to this point it’s still a huge challenge.
1. How do I learn to listen to a song on a CD or on You Tube and figure out a bass part for it?
2. Or, how do I figure out a bass part for a song on sheet music?
3. Should I buy a four string or a five string model?
Thanks.
Hi Jonathan,
Since young age I was impressed about bass guitar but could not afford to get one. Now that I can afford to buy a bass guitar, I finally bought one last week. But I don’t know how to play it yet and I hope that you may help me to be one of the winner of your free bass guitar lesson.
Thanks,
Pete
I write and record my own songs. I play guitar, bongos and can simulate drums but the songs will not be complete without Bass. I would like to be able to put some simple bass line in to fill out the music…
Anything I can learn about music is a plus. It is such a fasinating field…
Dave
I know nothing about the bass guitar. However, I do have a degree in music and would really like to learn to play so that can play with my high school students.
What is the advantage of your program as compared to others?
1)How can I help my daughter get to learn faster. She is a beginner. Also, how do I get a return on my investment (buying her a bass guitar)?
2) I have purchased your I IV V and it was very helpful for me.PS Do you have any lessons for the drums?
v
1. I play guitar, but have been asked to play bass. I would like to know how to translate the guitar to bass and how to leave the chords/notes on the bass guitar.
2. I need the DVD to give me a proven method to learn how to play the bass guiater.
Thanks,
Kirk
I was serious at learning classical guitar for many years. Now I just want to have fun with it and Bass is interesting. I just need some help!
I have played gui8tar and mandolin for many years and just thought I’d like to try to learn to play bass, too.
I’m doing what you’re doing; learning from others how to make my product better. I love it when a REAL teacher comes along that knows how to break things down into understandble language for all. Your videos seem to do that for many people. Bass guitar seems to confuse many, especially if they’ve started off with guitar, because of their lack of basic theory behind that paticular instrument. If your video can break through that mystery, you’ll be helping many struggling or beginning bassists become better musicians. Understanding your instrument and theory is key. You sound like you’re able to share that key. And in the meantime, you’re collecting fuel for future lessons. What a great way to help all of your customers out! Go for it! We need more teachers like you! Please keep teaching!
1) In the comments section below, please post your #1 question about the bass guitar.
A. What is the best Octave of the scale to use, while the guitarist is playing Major, Major pentatonic, Minor pentatonic, ECT. higher, lower or middle Octave.
2) You must also tell me why you need the Decoding the Bass Guitar DVD.
A. To enhance my music and creatively, I play two other instrument (guitar and piano).And I have a Bass guitar (replica of violin bass – Paul McCarthy). But previously concentrated on guitar and piano. And I finally realize what a difference the bass guitar would have on my creative understanding.
I’m intristing to learn more about the bass guitar.
Bass do a beutifull sound filling in music.
I play on a B5, 5 string Cord Bass Guitar and a Laney 160 Hardcore amp,
but the sound is not so good as on your cd.
I do a lot of adjustments, with no results.
I will appreciate it if you can help.
I’m not using any foot pedals.
question: How do I move away from the melody and move in to a supporting role with the bass guitar.
I have been playing bass for our church praise team for a few years and only occasionally have I been able to play other than the basic chord structure. If I can hear the bass part clearly in music I am listening to, I can periodically emulate a portion of the riff movement. I would like to be able to understand the relationship between the main chord structure and a supporting bass part.
1. Are there bass guitar chords?
2. I need the DVD because I do not know a thing about playing bass guitar and I wish to learn something. Also having trouble playing a regular guitar, (or any other instrument)!
For my Students
1. Is there such a thing as Bass guitar chords?
2. Need DVD to learn something about playing bass guitar. Not having much success playing anything else.
My number one question would be, as an accomplished six string player, how could I apply that knowledge to the bass?
Why do I need the DVD? That is simple. I have only been playing bass since my brother passed me his old one last year. I know all of the simple stuff but I would love to progress and become an accomplished bass player as well. I want to do it for myself first and foremost but I also want to increase my chances of getting into a better live music situation and I know that it will help my song writing ability as I can apply the 6 string and bass together while writing music.
What is the number one thing a bassist should know when working with a band, and in particular, when writing a bass line to support an already written guitar riff?
i all ways liked the bass i think the bass dvd would help play because you are a good teacher keep up the good work thanks joetheshakerRBLEG
1. I’ve had trouble anticipating where the music is going and where I should be on the bass relative to what the guitarist are doing. Perhaps I just need more experience but I seem to often be going a different direction than the guitarists.
2. I bought a bass about 6 years ago when everyone I knew who was into playing music was playing guitar. I thought playing the bass would ad a new dimension to our playing. I tried several times to make it work with a couple of guitar players and it never really worked. I’m the first to admit my music theory knowledge is not so great so I thought maybe this DVD lesson could help me become a better bass player and I could be welcomed addityion to playing with my friends.
have to hear it.
I just got this to day but I will try to send it anyway. I want to play because it is the music in me that keeps me looking for the next day . I am 62 years old and music is what I always wanted to be a part of my life and Just was never in the time frame for it and now I am perusing that part of my life. I still have problems learning my scale’s and my lettering positions on the fret board for both my guitar and my bass playing., but will never give up. C K. Ahlo
I want to get into playing the Bass guitar because of my fascination of some of the funk genre type grooves of the 70′s and 80′s..ex:Patrice Rushen-Forget me nots.I also like many Reggae and latin bass grooves,and,I am also getting the sense that Bass players might be more in demand than guitar players.Also,I do believe I have a very good sense of rhythm,which some people have told me is pretty essential in bass guitar playing.My question to you is,I have fairly small hands and thin fingers,they almost look long and lanky,but,because of the smallishness of my hands,that may be a bit deceiving.I wonder if that would limit me in my ability to take on the bass guitar.By the way,I detect a Canadian accent in you,eh?HOW BOUT THEM BLACKHAWKS!!(I’m from Chicago,btw)Hope to get your intake on these musical issues of mine.Thank You.
Been trying to play guitar or years, still lousy! I may have better luck with bass.
My question
What is the fastest way to get started playing bass by ear?
I’m self taught and only play by ear. I played drums in a C&W Swing Band professionally for 23 years. I’ve never read music. I need to learn more of the basics so I can be a more rounded player……sometimes we only have 3 pieces…..I need to be able to do more at those times. I need to know more of the basics. I currently play lots of classic country and classic rock & roll. I love to play the bass.
Traditional methods of learning have not been as effective for me as I have Dyslexia, which tends to slow down the ability to quickly absorb and retain information past the first few levels. Learning and improving my playing takes even more repetition than for most players. Anytime I can find information that helps decode the traditional training methods, I like to check it out. Also, the DVD is really important to me because I’m mostly a visual person. I retain more from watching a DVD than I do say reading sheet music or a book on theory.
Thanks!
It did let me finish and now won’t let me back to it.But as I was saying I need to win this because I’m 41 years old and found out last year that I have pancreatic cancer I’m married with 13 yrd girl I had a 12 hour surgery and 6 mth in hospital and don’t know how much longer I have but God is my rock I want to play in a band here Called Dead End Allie and I feel this will give me the edge to get my foot in,my wife has sung pro.in her early years and I have tried to get her to start a band again but she said I have to play first so we can together.so now I give you two reasons all before I pass I would love to see both,please don’t pick me cause you feel sorry but because my reasons are true.ty May God Bless you for this helping others
I’m doing what you’re doing; learning from others how to make my product better. I love it when a REAL teacher comes along that knows how to break things down into understandable language for all. Your videos are doing that for many people. Bass guitar seems to confuse many, especially if they’ve started off with guitar, because of their lack of basic theory behind that particular instrument. If your video can break through that mystery, you’ll be helping many struggling or beginning bassists become better musicians. Understanding your instrument and theory is key. You sound like you’re able to share that key. And in the meantime, you’re collecting fuel for future lessons. What a great way to help all of your customers out! Go for it! We need more teachers like you! Please keep teaching!”
Would like to learn the base, something beside just the 1,4,5
i am 67 and never to old to learn
How do I keep my fingers from cramping I’m 62 and get to play out only a few times a year theses days.
I play the guitar and I want to learn a little about playing the bass guitar. Also, I’d like to turn on a friend who plays bass. We used to play together in a band and I’m sure he’d appreciate any lessons he could get.
hey, man. i appriciate all the good stuff you’ve been teachin. i have been playing guitar for a few years now and i write a lot of my own stuff. i got myself some cheap recording equipment and i do the singing and guitar. i would now like to learn a bit about the bass so i can go through and add my own bass lines. i actually started playing the bass about 13 years ago but i never had any lessons on it and i am now pretty consumed with guitar.
my question for you is: how many bass players does it take to screw in a light bulb? thanks again. gus
1.) Free DVD?
2.) I’m gonna learn to play Bass! Yea for me………..
I played a little bass years ago,now that I’m retired from my job and still preaching the Word,I want to play my bass in church unto the Lord.
I think this video will be a good tools for me to get back in shape, and give God all Glory, possibly play with the choir.
This would be of great benefot,as would like to become competent with relationshop building with a drummer,to ensure a tight combo within a unit.
1. HELP!
2. HELP!
3. HELLLLLLP!
4. PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
John,
My number one question about the bass is learning the patterns to different types of music as I find it easy to just pluck a bass line but there is no emphasis to it because I can’t figure out a good groove or pattern and remember it as I can do with my guitar scales.
My reason for needing the” decoding the bass” dvd is plain and simply that it just enables me to see how it’s done and I can transfer what I’m watching into what I will learn to play and progress from there on.
Thanks for Your consideration,
Scott Harrington
I’ve been playing guitar for many years and just bthought I’d like to try to learn how to play the bass too.
Back in the 80′s I was in a group that had two excellent guitar players. That left me on the bass. I never really mastered the cross-over to the bass, but still would like to tie it all together.
I want to move around too much on neck,when I have the next note
just 2 frets and 1 string away in most cases,but I always go back to the basic position,why after 1 year of playing can’t I
get use to moving to the next closest position
I would like the dvd to learn a different way than from a book
which is why I am still having problems.I think a visual lesson is always the best way to learn,Watching someone doing it properly
need help and u guys are perfect
Hey Jonathan,
I’ve been playing or hacking at the guitar for 20 years. Always played rhythm and nothing more. I recently purchased I,IV,V and realized, I know a lot about nothing. I have been asked to fill-in on Bass several times on various gigs and have always been hesitant to do so. I just don’t feel comfortable enough to carry the back beat with a drummer. My question is: How do I force myself to be confident enough to be up for the task when asked. My guitar work is so so and I do OK when improvising with pentatonic fills, but screwing that kind of thing up on Bass is a potential train wreck. Any words of advice are appreciated. btw…really digging your lessons and such. Great work!
J Howard Bach
1) I’ve gotten to the stage where I generally make my way around the frets by ear, “feeling” where to go next. Sometimes it feels like the Hand-of-God, cos I sure as hang didn’t know I was going to play “that”. So how do I play KNOWING where to go next. How do I get creative using the chords I’m given?
2) Funny, the answer to this one is the same as the previous. I’m stuck. I can feel where to go, and my hands sometimes just play without conscious thought about where I’m going. But I want to “know” what I’m doing and be confident in being creative live.
Cheers!
I,ve played bass for many years and from past experience learned that it is always good to keep on seeking new ideas and listening to what other people can do, in that way you keep progressing and expanding in your playing and you do not become stale and in a rut. Thanks for your input. regards Wil Harvie
I’m principally a guitar player, so my bass work sounds like a guitar player! How do I get out of this?
Tom
Hi, thanks for all your help and assiatance in the past.
1.) Why are there 5 and 6 string basses if a 4 string has been sufficient for so many years? AND a second if I may? What is a fretless bass for? making it even more difficult??
2-) Been trying to play for a few years, tried out in a small band at one stage but I did not get the bass sorted so gave up on it. I have confidance in your abillity to teach and help me to get the bass sorted, that is why I would appreciate a copy.
Thanks for the opportunity Jonathan.
I’ve always wanted to know how the bass guitar relates to the stand up (acoustic type) of bass. Are the fingerings similar and tuning the same?
I would like to learn the bass so that I can play with my buds. As many others have noted, guitar players are a dime a dozen (at least around here) and if I want to play in a band I’m gonna have to know the bass.
Geoff
I’ve been playing guitar for many yeard, I was jamming a few weeks ago with some friends of mine and they put me on Bass,
This was the first time I’ve played bass in over 20 yrs.
I realy think this DVD will help me to improve significantly.
Why will some people tell my basslines and improvisations sounds just about awesome on its own as well to the song, and others will say the very same lines are dissonant and malsounding?
I want to improve my ability to create an aestheticly appropriate bass-line counterpoint to a song’s chord progression,
Thknk you for guitar tips, great!
what is most used fingers or pick?
I can never find enough good info to help kids learning the bass
HI JONATHAN my question is how to posisition my fingers so i can get around the neck better and faster?
I know the basics but im kind of stuck in a rut and cant seem to get past thatand a bass guitar is almost more important than some other instruments in a way looking forward to creating my own cd someday playing all the instruments myself my current list of instruments i own and play guitar,bass guitar,steelguitar,and keyboard\piano.
How can a bassist establish a line in a way that both lays down a strong rhythmic pattern and provides creative harmonic support for the melodic line? And how can such lines become the basis for bass solos? And on a different note, fretless or fretted? My best bassist buddy says fretless is fastest…
Hey Man, I’ve played bass for about 7 years now and want to get into more complex note patterns such as are used in contemporary jazz sort of Acoustic Alcemy style where do I begin and what scales can I use to be spontaneous?
I love pets and dogs but I love the bass even more. How do I “walk the dog” AKA walking bassline? This DVD on bass is the spark I need to learn bass basics.I also want to be a bass soloist. Thanks, Daryl
i’m interested in learning phrasing and patterns that flow.i been playing bass for 2 years i’m looking for a method to increase my learning curve. i’m 76 years old and running out of time.
Hi Jonathon I enjoy your 145 video’s thank for your Emails I beat cancer but My left hand lost some dextarity so I have switched to the bass I have picked up some lessons on the internet but I could use your dvd. if you could spare me one. Thanks for all you do George
I play in a christian band, we mostly play at mass, and do 3 or 4 retreats a year. There are 5 guitarists that join in when they can, but only one bass player. There are times the he just can’t make it to a retreat, I really need to learn the bass so that I can back him up when he’s unable to come. I am intrigued by the fact that you also play bass, and would really like to learn from a pro. Thank you for reading this.
Sincerely:
Rodney.
1) My number one question is how to improvise, I want to be able to play prophetically, flow in the spirit, bring people into an encounter with the creator.
2)I need so I can “Slappa the Ba-ass” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8W3NERMKIBM
Thanks for the opportunity
I have always been interested in Bass, I’m just a neophyte guitar player, but I would be very interested in learning about the bass.
1) I am really interested in learning chordal bass movements. I have found no who can show me how to walk the bass with a few chord voices between.
2) Myself and two great friends built our band and we’re getting really good opportunities to play bigger shows but i’ve only played this year (originally a drummer) and they’ve played for four and five years. I feel as if i am holding them back. I contribute alot to making the actual songs because i can play other instruments and compose but I want to improve masses so we can take this far. Also i am attending school to be a professional musician but i fear i won’t be up to standard to make it into the collegiate level ensembles.
I’ve been playing bass in cover bands for 30 years & I love it – it’s my joy & my life. I’ve always played by ear – never a formal lesson. I’ve recently begun to question why I play the notes I play. What’s it about? I can hear what makes sense to me – what sounds good, but I don’t know why. Also, since I’ve never had formal lessons, I really don’t know my scales like I should. I’m embarrassed about that. I feel like even though I can get up on stage & wow people, I’m really faking it. I want to be as good as people think I am. For myself, my bandmates & those who come to see me play. It’s time…
1) How can you make bass playing sound more intersting, if you are by yourself and somebody says – show me something?
2) I’d like to do more than play tabs, like get a handle on the nuts and bolts of playing.
I’ve played alto sax for 12 years but always loved the bass. Trying to teach myself how to play bass also with some help from a friend that plays in a country band. He says that country music is easy to play and is good for learning. Is this true?
I want to learn the bass because we have 2 girls in my church that play the bass and i can”t let them out do me. And I need decoring the bass because I can’t learn if you don”t help me.
1. who was the first blues bass player? 2. sure like the blues. would like to play the bass blues style.
Does it matter if you learn to play bass with or without a pick?
I normally play guitar but I started playing bass over a year ago because a friend’s band needed a bass player and I wanted to be a part of it. However, that band didn’t last so I put the bass down for a while. I would love to get back into playing and I know this video will help get me fired up again.
1. who was the first blues bass player? 2.want to learn how to play blues bass since i love the blues.
1) Does this video teach stiles and techniques?
2) Even though I have been playing bass for a while I sometimes feel that I need to learn more to keep from becoming complacent and bored.
I have benefited greatly from your guitar tips for my acoustic guitar which improved my playing check out the web site above and you’ll see how the strumming lessons helped in the songs I recorded.
I have bought a saffire le unit and want to learn the bass to record and play in the band I’d really appreciate any help you can give me
Sydney Ledoux
1. Need to learn bass to accompany band at church.
2. Can you play from the treble cleff as if it was that last 4 strings on a guitar?