Bas(s)ic Techniques

There are a few basic techniques that every bass player should know, such as how to play scales, arpeggios, and chords. These techniques will provide a solid foundation for your playing and allow you to expand your skills as you progress.

Learning basic bass techniques is an important part of becoming a skilled electric bass player. Here are a few techniques that every bass player should know:

1. Scales: A scale is a sequence of musical notes played in a specific order. There are many different types of scales, including major scales, minor scales, and modes. Scales are an important foundation for music theory and can help you understand how different notes and chords relate to each other.

2. Arpeggios: An arpeggio is a chord played one note at a time, rather than all at once. Arpeggios can add interest and variety to your playing and are often used in solos and fills.

3. Chords: A chord is a group of three or more notes played together. There are many different types of chords, including major chords, minor chords, and seventh chords. Knowing how to play different chords will give you a solid foundation for playing bass lines and accompaniment.

4. Slapping and popping: Slapping and popping are techniques that involve using your fingers to create percussive sounds on the strings. These techniques are often used in funk and R&B music and can add a lot of energy and groove to your playing.

5. Muting: Muting is the technique of dampening the strings to create a more percussive sound. This can be done with your fretting hand, your picking hand, or a combination of both. Muting is a useful technique for creating a more defined and punchy sound.

By learning these basic techniques, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled electric bass player. As you progress, you can continue to expand your skills by learning more advanced techniques and exploring different styles of music.

Here are a few more things to consider as you learn basic bass techniques:

6. Practice with a metronome: A metronome is a device that produces a regular, pulsing sound that can help you keep time while practicing. Using a metronome can help you develop a solid sense of timing and improve your accuracy when playing scales, arpeggios, and chords.

7. Play along with backing tracks: Backing tracks are pre-recorded musical accompaniments that you can play along with. They can be a great way to practice your techniques and learn new styles of music. You can find backing tracks online or create your own by using a digital audio workstation or recording software.

8. Use a backing band app: There are many apps available that allow you to play along with a virtual backing band. These apps often come with a variety of styles and tempos to choose from and can be a fun and convenient way to practice your techniques.

9. Seek out instructional resources: There are many instructional resources available online and in music stores that can help you learn basic bass techniques. Look for instructional books, DVDs, or online lessons that are tailored to your skill level and musical interests.
10. Get feedback from a teacher or mentor: A teacher or mentor can provide valuable feedback on your playing and help you identify areas for improvement. Consider finding a bass teacher or mentor who can guide your practice and help you develop your skills.

Remember, the key to becoming a skilled electric bass player is practice. Set aside time each day to practice your techniques, and be patient with yourself as you learn. With dedication and hard work, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient bassist.

Martin Motnik / StudioBassist.com