If you’re just learning how to play bass guitar you’ve come to the right place.  We’re going to start you off with some basic knowledge that you need to know before bass guitar lessons will help you learn bass guitar at whatever level you are and hope to be.  Many of the aspects of how to play bass guitar are similar to the six string electric or acoustic guitar, at least in theory.  A bass player has to have a different attitude about the music.  They don’t have to be loud and out there like the guitarist.  Bass players help provide a solid rhythmic foundation along with the drummer.  Your success with these bass guitar lessons will determine whether you’re just another garage band, a good band or a great band.

Bass guitar - Where to start

Many of the books and instruction for bass players often take a long round about road to actually teaming you up with others and being able to call yourself a band.  If you want to learn how to play bass guitar, a very important part of becoming an accomplished player starts with listening.  When listening to your favorite band or songs, listen to the bass line.  Try to separate it from the rest of the song so that it becomes second nature and easy to pick out.  Train your ears for this task.  Also, play along with the radio or your stereo or better yet a friend who plays rhythm guitar.  You won’t learn bass guitar overnight so be patient and work these practices into your routine.  If you have a passion for bass guitar, it won’t be work, it’ll be fun.

Bass guitar is a unique instrument and completely different from the six string in many ways.  There are similarities when you learn bass guitar but they are mostly theoretical.  While the six string uses mostly hand shapes and forms like chords, the bass is more patterns of single notes. 

For example, lets take the simple C Chord on which you play the root or C note (3^rd fret, A String).  The all important lower 5^th or G note is right next to the C on the E String while the upper 5^th is only 2 frets up on the D String.  The octave C is right next to that on the G String.