The bass player together with the drummer, form what is called the rhythm section of a group. They create the backing beat, driving force and "tightness" necessary for a successful group.
Complete Teach Yourself Bass Manual is suitable for beginners as well as for bass players who want to improve their skills. No previous knowledge of bass guitar playing or music is required. All techniques and music theory are gradually introduced in a very easy clear way. During the course of this book, you will learn bass lines using all of the common note and rest values used in music, along with patterns and grooves used by the world’s best bass players. A variety of styles and techniques are covered which are the foundation of today’s popular music including slapping and two handed tapping. The book also covers music theory as it applies to bass playing. Chord symbols are placed above some examples so that a guitarist or keyboard can play along with the bass. Note that the fingering is only a possible suggestion and it is often a personal choice what feels best. The standard fingering on bass is one finger per fret.
Anyone who completes this book will be well on the way to being an excellent bass player. The best and fastest way to learn is to use this book in conjunction with:
- Buying sheet music and song books of your favorite recording artists and learning to play their songs.
- Practicing and playing with other musicians. You will be surprised how good a basic drums/bass/guitar combination can sound even when playing easy music.
- Learning by listening to your favorite recordings.
Particularly in the early stages it is helpful to have the guidance of an experienced teacher. This will also help you keep to a schedule and obtain weekly goals. To ensure that you develop a good sense of time, it is essential to work with a metronome or drum machine every time you practice.
