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The bass guitar looks similar to the electric guitar but it has a larger body, a longer neck, and fewer but thicker strings. There are usually four, sometimes five or six strings, tuned one octave lower. The body is usually made from maple or rose wood.
The bass is used in many styles of music including rock, metal, pop, country, blues, and jazz. It can solo in jazz, fusion, Latin, funk, and in some rock and heavy metal. It underlies the music's beat. And it is that beat that appeals to many guitarists, who decide to expand into playing bass and take bass guitar lessons.
The bass guitar, unlike other guitars, is not chord oriented and this actually makes learning to play the bass guitar more complex than learning how to play acoustic guitar. You might think that since there are fewer strings, it is easier to play, but that's not true!
Learning to play the bass guitar is a foundation that will make learning how to play other guitars like acoustic or electric easier.
If you want to learn the bass guitar, here are some simple tips to help you get started.
First you need to get a guitar. Borrow one to start or buy a used one. Don't spend a lot of money until you get proficient and learn a little about what you want in your instrument. You can look at eBay, Craigslist, or Google "used bass guitars" to find a reasonable used one. You can always trade up later.
Expect that you will need to have a certain degree of hand strength to play bass guitar. More than with other guitar types, the bass guitar requires strong hands and fingers.
ou should learn how to tune your bass guitar. Tuning it isn't really different than tuning a standard guitar. It may be easier since you likely have fewer strings to tune. If you are new, don't try to tune by ear, but get an electronic guitar tuner. You can get a battery operated one for around $20.
You need to be attuned to the beat of the music that you are playing. Some bass parts aren't necessarily complicated but the rhythm must be perfect. That means you really need to be able to focus intently when you practice. As old-school as this may sound, practice with a metronome. Don't worry - it doesn't have to be an old wood box! You should be able to find one online that you can download. Some online bass guitar lessons will provide you with a digital version.
Now, take some bass guitar lessons or find a good bass guitar instructional DVD or online program. Some of the better ones actually let you "jam along" with their guitar instructors. Or find a friend or two you can play with. Playing with others will help you hone your skills and show you what areas you most need to work on.
Playing the bass guitar can be a lifelong rewarding hobby or even a career. And last, don't forget to relax and have fun.
