@@vorador4365 Great habit to revisit the basics. Just like in sports, the best are really just the best at doing the basics. Or do I say bass-ics. (Sorry for old joke...)
You have nailed the balance between demonstrating and talking. You talk and demonstrate at the same time instead of talking for 10 minutes and then losing the viewer. Well done.
This is by far the most comprehensive and clear, straight-to-the-point video for right hand / plucking hand technique on bass! Thank you very much! First day bass player
First day? We've been waiting for you! I'm glad you found it helpful. Review this lesson now and again. As you progress you will be able to focus on finer and finer details. Stick to it!
I’m a novice at the bass (probably doesn’t need to be said given the subject matter of the video), but decently accomplished in other areas of life, and the insight about watching your plucking hand over the fretting hand is deceptively subtle. It seems to me the underlying idea is “sound bad to play well” - which sound like conflicting thoughts, when really they are not. It also incorporates a delayed gratification ethic leveraged against insight into unconscious human behavior. Great video, very helpful!
Hi Andrew! I am an italian bass student. I want to thank you, I am not only learning bass but also English! Your lessons are great and you are the person I can understand in English the best! a lot of your love for music shines through in what you do, I admire you very much. ♥♥♥♥
Thank you! I love Italians. You are some of the best people in the world. I am happy you understand things clearly. I write with non-English speakers in mind. It is a lot of editing. I am happy it is working. Keep learning (both languages!) and keep me updated on your progress. There is much more on studybass.com. Ciao!
Oh yes, almost forgot. I had never even seen a Bass before in real life, that is but my admiration for a great bass player from one of the 80's band led me to inquire about the bass which is all about rhythm and rhythm I dig: I was born in Cuba so rhythm was in the air everywhere. Tx again
All other videos on that subject i watched so far left many questions...they're all covered here and presented without unneccessary talking and self display, superb !
Awesome lesson, and also compliments for great close-up shots and the supporting captions. Just bought 2 basses, my daughter and I will be taught by you as of today😊
Great! Welcome to bass playing. Be patient. The beginning is the hardest part. It's all about consistent daily practice. Keep me posted on your progress. I appreciate your support.
Clear, succinct, complete! Your coverage of muting strategies alone is priceless. Less than 20 minutes to scatter PEARLS that might otherwise take years to stumble on or good luck if you happen to have the right teacher. Utter, utter bargain of a channel! Thank you.
Thank you! I'm happy you're finding helpful stuff here. There's a lot more on www.studybass.com. The website is a learning system. I don't want anyone to think that StudyBass is a UA-cam channel. :) I hope you check it out. Keep making great music!
I'm new to bass (I bought my first one yesterday). I am watching your videos and they are so great! I can understand all you say. Congratulations, definitely I will see all your material. Cheers.
As a life long guitar player I needed this plucking lesson. Playing bass correctly is not as easy as a lot of us think. I have only recently started my expansion to bass and I found this to not only be comprehensive but very simple to understand too. It honestly helped to improve my playing technique in one afternoon! Great job man and I’ll be coming back! Subbed as well 👍🏻
Welcome! I strongly encourage guitarists to think of the bass as a completely different instrument. From guitar you already know the bass' melodic potential. Approach the bass from the other side and think of it as a tuned drum. Like a harmonic bass drum. Have fun! P.S. there's way more on studybass.com than here on YT.
As a guitar player, bass is a whole new beast. The only thing they have in common is the look. Very few of the things I learned on guitar help for bass (like fretboard knowledge). I’m trying to approach it with a different mindset than on guitar, because I know how annoying guitar players can be when switching to bass.
I am new to this method of platform. I am beginning to learn the musical alphabet and now I have access to this wonderful course and community. I am elated to get started and have enjoyed all the commentary and feedback from the Teacher 🙂. I have no knowledge of starting this process, but I am encouraged and ready to engage and go forth into learning how to become a bass player/guitarist. Thank you again sir.
Great! Welcome! There's a lot more on studybass.com than found here. Keep at it. The beginning is the hardest part. The key is to practice something every day. Have fun learning and playing!
Finally a direct video. Don't have to wait 5 mins to hear 1 min of instructions. Plus I like your advice on which technique to use for muting, vs just saying "use them all"
Thanks! I'm happy to hear that. There are many more lessons, exercises, quizzes and more on studybass.com which you won't find here. As far as the views, some of that is due to me not playing all of the UA-cam games. I'm too busy teaching for that. Keep me posted on your progress!
I'm mainly a guitar player who picked up the bass about 19 years ago because that's where the work was. I still think like a guitar player, and while it's done the job, there's definitely an absolute ceiling to the skill level I can reach without proper technique like this. Unlearning and relearning the extreme basics is tough after old habits are deeply ingrained, but it really is the only way to progress past "mediocre." To those of you who are just starting on your bass journey, take this stuff seriously. These are excellent lessons and you'll be glad 5 or 10 years down the road that you took the time to learn properly.
Solid advice, I'm a guitarist too, picking up bass to aid in composition. Unlearning bad guitar habits was really tough, if I had another chance at learning an instrument I would've done it the slow and proper way from the start instead of relying on shortcuts. For guitarists, I think the left hand as where most of the bad habits are going to form. We're used to assigning 1 finger per fret, generally, while proper bass technique generally requires you to not use the 3rd finger (ring).
I’m a beginner bassplayer and I enjoyed this lesson. Do you also have a lesson how to get the fingers of both hands more flexible? The pinky and ringfinger is going all over the place when plukking 🤗
Welcome to the bass! You're going to love playing. Yes, all of the exercises are on www.studybass.com (don't worry, they're free). Use the StudyBass Study Guide and the lessons and exercises are all methodically arranged for you. Keep me updated on your progress, and let me know if you ever have questions.
Great! I wish I had had this advice a few days in. It was a few years before I figured these things out on my own. There's a lot more on studybass.com. Keep me updated on your progress.
I agree with all the positive comments your video has received. The information is always straight to the point, no nonsense talking, and also providing alternatives. I am actually looking for an opinion on thumb plucking. Could you please share your opinion?
I've just bought a bass a few days ago, never played one before, and I've been watching videos on youtube with lessons, but this one helped me fix problems that none of the other ones even mentioned. Great video, thank you for everything
Wow you're a life saver. I'm a new bass player and everything you have mentioned to avoid, i was doing it. Gonna save for later to watch again to keep everything in mind. Thank you. Subscribed!
Great! The beginning is the hardest part. Stay with it and you'll later wonder how this part was ever hard. Keep me updated on your progress and be sure to do the exercises and other material on studybass.com.
I have been watching you for 30 min and been playing at home self taught bass player and everything he says it spot on and correct I can't wait for more of your lessons as I will take very seriously and thanks for your knowledge bass brother brother we are now 🤘🤘
Great! Keep at it. The key is to practice at least something every single day. It keeps building. There's a lot more on studybass.com. Keep me posted on your progress!
Thanks so much for taking the time to teach us hopeful beginners,,! I have a long way to go before anyone-including my neighbors- can actually tell am trying to play the bass. Lol That's how green I am. Am confident now am on the right track.Videosvvery well made and explained! I learned more in a few minutes than in a week of YouTubing. Am sure I speak for many when I say am glad I found your videos!
Thanks! I'm happy you're learning. Be sure to use the free guided lessons on studybass.com. I started StudyBass before UA-cam existed, and there's only a little available here. Keep me updated on your progress.
I have been playing guitar for 30 + years and I thought playing bass would be easy... No, no, no !!! Watching your video, I discovered why I sound so bad ! You are a good teacher. Thank you so much.
Thanks! Doing anything well is never easy. My standing advice to guitar players coming to bass is to think of the bass as a completely different instrument. Think of it like a tuned drum rather than a guitar. Really, it's both a drum kit and guitar rolled into one. (Which is pretty awesome!) You know the guitar part, so mind the drum aspect. There's lots more on www.studybass.com that's not here on youtube. Good luck!
The clarity, and approach towards developing the mindset to receive what is to be instructed, is inspiring not only to learn what is being taught, but how to retain the right mindset while learning. This has no reason to be free, other than the goodness of empowering others. Thank you for this!
I am a transitioning guitarist to bass player. In general it is pretty easy. But I was fristrated with ringing notes making the sound muddy. I did a search for how to control that and landed here. Dude - you provided me the perfect lesson to work on. Hopefully I can master these techniques. Thanks a ton.
Great! I've had a lot of guitar player students. I always encourage them to think of the bass as a completely different instrument. Think of the bass more like a tuned drum than simply a low-pitched guitar. You might find you play it differently. Hopefully you check out the rest of the lessons on www.studybass.com. Keep me posted on your progress!
Your speaking style is so clear and calming. I like when you summarize concepts that you just talked about into a nice, neat package. Thanks for making these videos. I'm gonna recommend your site to one of my friends who is just taking up the bass.
Thank you! People often mention my calmness, and it makes me fear what you're all being subjected to out there. Keep practicing and making music (both of you)!
exactly what i was looking for. am 56 ,have three basses and picking up where i left it. Now back to AC DC,Zep,Maiden,Rush and gonna be using my fingers henceforth. perfect demo,thank u sir.
Thanks for the clarity, the detailed explanation and the relaxed manner of delivering it all. It seems you cover everything that can go wrong, and help with it even before it happens. Feels great to follow you. Thanks!
Thanks! I'm happy you're learning! You can really thank my students. After 30 years of teaching lessons I've heard just about every question there is. There are many more lessons on www.studybass.com open to all. Everyone talks about my calm manner. I don't really poke around youtube, but apparently everyone else is like a loud furniture salesman on TV! lol
This is the 4th video in a row I have watched on this topic. Previously I learned that I was plucking too hard. I learned that it's not my job to make the bass loud, it's the job of my amp. That's the only thing that was really clear to me. My plucking still felt uncomfortable. After watching this video, I seem to finally be feeling comfortable as I play and the subject is finally clear to me. Studybass guy, you get a like and a subscribe from me.
Sorry for the slow reply. I've been very busy with the massive studybass.com update. I'm happy to hear this video clicked for you! I have a lot more good stuff on the way. Keep playing, learning and creating music!
Wow! That was indeed one the best lessons ever found here onUA-cam. As someone already said, it's hard to believe this is actually free content. And Scott Devine said in his videos tha people should "skip the UA-cam bass lessons roulette." If that would apply, I wouldn't have landed here. Don't get me wrong, Devine is in fact a great teacher and an amazing bass player, but hey, nobody is perfect. Studybass, thank you very much for sharing such awesome stuff! Cheers!
Thank you! I'm happy it helped. There's more on studybass.com. There are tons of great lessons to be found all over--local teachers, books, videos. The algorithms, however, are not teachers. Their goal is to keep you on their platform as long as possible to make money off of your (practice!) time. In fact, they work you like a slot machine--they pay out just the right amount randomly to keep you hunting for more. I hate it and interact with it as little as possible; I suggest the same to my students. My lessons have gotten buried by all of the money-making ones, but 2023 marks 20 years of free lessons, exercises and more on studybass.com. There are no ads. I appreciate any support I get, but I feel everyone deserves to learn, so the lessons are open to all. They are organized and based on my 30 years of teaching private students. I hope you check out the curricula. Keep me updated on your progress!
@@StudyBass Thank you very much for the reply, Andrew! i've already subscribed to your YT channel and also signed up (for the free account, so far...) on your web site. You just got yourself another student! I'm sure will check all your vids and free content. Again, thank you very, very much for your help and support! Be seen ya! 🙏
Having just started on bass at age 48 this was just the video I was looking for. There are tons of good bass teaching videos out there, but none of them seemed to take on these topics, at least not as well. Thank you so much.
Thank you for your lesson! I really like the pace of the lesson, I've found that many UA-cam teachers just blow through so fast that I can't follow what they're doing or even see their fretting. Very frustrating. Your methodical and careful approach is like the Quintessiential Bassist: focused, understated, super precise in order to get just the right tone!
Thank you! Be sure to check out studybass.com. It's a methodical learning system I started 20 years ago before youtube was even a thing. Keep me updated on your progress!
Started biting off my fingernails as I started watching this. I usually save them for weekend football game watching. Great lesson, thanks so much! I am a good example of a single finger/pick player and I am struggling with getting my fingers going now. This was very helpful.
Oh my God, that's the video I was missing so much. I'm trying to learn by myself (without an amp) and I was always asking myself if I was doing right, and other bass players were telling me that anyway was fine, so I was getting frustrated. And now I see it was totally wrong and can finally continue to learn. Your website is amazing, love the exercises there, hope it soon will be updated. xx from Brazil.
I just want to back up all the comments here saying this is great stuff. I've played guitar for years and certainly know that playing bass is not the same as guitar with only four strings. It was a bit of a search to find useful technical lessons, most just say do this do that, but not how and with detailed demonstrations. This lesson ticks all those boxes, really great stuff👍. Excellent!
I have tried them all and floating thumb works best for many reasons. Look at his wrist when he doesn't use the floating thumb technique at the end of the video. You want to have your wrist in a neutral position as much as possible. Thanks for the video.
9:50 This part is so helpful for playing September by Earth, Wind, and Fire. There’s the pattern where pluck the open A-string twice, then hit the 12th fret on the G-string then the 14th fret on the G-string. I always struggle stopping that A-string from ringing out, thank you!
Precisely! The problem shows up every once in a while and, if you don't have it, it is real trouble. Check out the string-crossing exercises on studybass.com (most of the lessons are there, not on UA-cam). Keep practicing!
Sorry for the slow reply! Thank you. I'm happy you found it helpful. You'll find many more free lessons on studybass.com. Keep me updated on your progress.
Thanks for this lesson. When I started playing bass I chose the wandering thumb technique. Now I might spend some time and learn the technique where I mute the A string mit my ring finger. As you said, this seems to be more efficient.
Really in depth video. Been picking up bass recently and between your guides on the site and bassbuzz's videos I definitely feel like I have excellent resources. This is the first of your videos I've actually checked out though since keeping strings muted when not playing them has been quite a frustrating endeavor starting out.
Thanks! Don't miss all of the exercises for this lesson and all of the other free lessons on studybass.com. Keep me updated on your progress, and let me know if you have questions.
Thank you for this tutorial. I transitioned from guitar and I've been doing bass for about a month and a half. Initially I thought I was nailing it and was able to play more advanced bass parts with ease using the wrong plucking technique of pulling from under the string, but just learnt that wasn't correct. I'm currently practicing the correct plucking method, and it does feel uncomfortable and hurts and tires my wrist out, but hopefully I will be able to get used to it and play as quickly and comfortably using the right method!
Great! Though let's not call it THE right way. It is a right way, and it should provide a great leaping off point. Be sure to see the other www.studybass.com lessons. In particular, how to hold the bass. That influences everything else a lot and could be the source of your discomfort. Keep practicing!
Thanks! I'm happy it helped. I recommend going through the guided lessons on studybass.com. There are many lessons with supporting exercises and more open to all. Keep making music and keep me updated on your progress.
What a great video, I've just retied from work aged 66 and now on a pension and realize i have to do something to keep my mind occupied other than gardening which i hate, I have no idea in how to play any musical instrument so i have decided to by a bass guitar, my wife thinks I'm nuts and too old but i told her ill drive her nuts if i don't find a good hobby to pass the time away. I've noticed a lot of cheap basses on ebay with a small amp going for around $300 Australian, i don't want anything fancy or costly, from reading up , there's a lot of cheap bass guitars that are really quite good for the beginner. This video is definitely a great explanation in starting, thank you.
Wonderful! Welcome to music and the bass! The beginning is the toughest part. Practice daily and be patient. It will all start coming together. There many more lessons on studybass.com presented in a structured way with exercises and more. Keep me updated on your progress and let me know if you have questions.
Oh My Goodness… why I didn’t discover your video sir… i I wish I learned this before… but anyway thank you so much I learned a lot. More power to your chanell
Extraordinary good lesson, many thanks for the great work. My first bass arrived yesterday, and luckily found your video right at the start of my journey!
Thanks! There's a lot more on the website (www.studybass.com/) that's not on UA-cam. You're going to love playing the bass. Consistent *daily* practice is the key. Keep at it!
I learned the ring finger muting technique going through the lessons at StudyBass, it was so well explained that it became a natural technique for me. I reckon Mr. Pouska didn't went through the wandering and floating thumb techniques on the website because they are a bit less efficient, but is awesome that he showcase them here in the video to have alternatives, awesome vid as always :D
Well, the website is updated now, but I remember that when I first went through that lesson, only the ring finger technique was being explained... or maybe is the only one that I payed attention to? hahahaha, aaaanyways.
Thanks, Mr. Mario! I'm glad you like the video. I'm working on the next one... The wandering thumb method was there, but you saw the glorious light of the ring finger and skipped over it. :) I did clear it up some, and I added the floating thumb part since I have so many students ask about it. Options are good.
I just started playing about a month ago and I can already say that these instructional videos have been a huge asset for me. The part at 16:30 about watching my plucking hand was so helpful and I probably would have never considered that on my own.
So much to take in! I started studybass yesterday, and have just been reading so far. I knew nothing about music but now I can name the notes on the fretboard, slowly though.
I am trying to re-learn something I have not done in over 25 years! I am self taught and originally, played by ear. I can't believe how many bad habits I had in the begging! But these videos are taking me in the right direction I feel. Teaching me the right way and exercising my patience with learning music. One day I will get comfortable with playing again and if I stay the course I will experience again the great joy playing music bought me in my youth!
That's great, Rodney! You might not realize it, but you've learned a lot over those 25 years with all of the music you've listened to. Stick to it. Be patient with yourself. Enjoy the process.
@@StudyBass I will do my best! Is it too awkward to just use your left index finger to "bar" across the G, D, and A strings whenever you play a note on any of those string, thereby muting the 2 open strings?
Well, there are no rules, but I think that would get in the way down the road. The first finger is often pretty busy as it is. I wouldn't give it more jobs when there are other fingers lazing about. The beginning is hard. Just keep working at it daily.
You remind me of a nicer version of my dad, he's a professional bass player among other things, but so hard and mean and demanding it crushed my desire to learn, but growing up around it I still picked up piano but had an aversion at a point, but now as adult I bought a bass a few times and this time really having fun thanks to your easy-going but straightforward instruction..Hope you grow and thrive!
Sorry to hear about your rough start with music. I'm sure he meant well. Parents teaching their kids doesn't always go well. Keep going. Even the not fun parts are pretty fun!
Great! Welcome to the bass. I always urge guitar players to think of the bass as a totally different instrument than the guitar. Think of the bass as a tuned drum. Of course, it does much more. But, this is a perspective guitar players often miss. It's like learning a drum kit with notes. Keep practicing!
Great! Welcome to the bass! I always tell my students coming from guitar to think of bass as a completely different instrument. Think of it as a pitched drum rather than just a low-pitched guitar. They look similar and there's overlap of course, but guitar and bass have different functions. There's much more on studybass.com to explore. Keep me posted on your progress!
Thank you so much, this is by far one of the best videos to understand most of right hand do's and dont's for starters. I was having problems with which technique to use when muting the A string and the G string, greetings from MX!
Thanks for you comprehensive exploration of each technique! I'm more of a thumb muter when it comes to the a string, but I will try out the other methods!
Well that was one great tutorial! As a long time guitar player starting bass for the first time, I've watched a few others videos on the subject, and this one is by far the clearest and most complete I stumbled on :) Thanks a lot
@@StudyBass That's great stuff! I've checked some more of your videos, and seems there are a lot of very valuable content on your website :) I've own my bass for only 8 days, but I'm really having fun everyday, and already getting improvement on my plucking and muting (which, coming from the guitar, is the most difficult I feel)
It's comical how good this lesson is.
Thanks, Trevor! I'm glad you liked it. Keep making music!
@d b yes it will pay off in the long run as you get more technical and will help you to play super clean
Truly…absolutely answers all questions.
rewatching it after a year of playing
@@vorador4365 Great habit to revisit the basics. Just like in sports, the best are really just the best at doing the basics. Or do I say bass-ics. (Sorry for old joke...)
You have nailed the balance between demonstrating and talking. You talk and demonstrate at the same time instead of talking for 10 minutes and then losing the viewer. Well done.
Thank you! I put a lot of planning into the videos. Your time is precious and I'm not going to waste it if I can help it.
Yeah, this guy is GOOD, isn't he?
Agree 100%
UA-cam finally understood what I've been seeking for the past few months: the most basic fundamentals of getting good bass tone.
Great! I'm happy it helped. There's a lot more on studybass.com. Keep making music!
This is by far the most comprehensive and clear, straight-to-the-point video for right hand / plucking hand technique on bass! Thank you very much!
First day bass player
First day? We've been waiting for you! I'm glad you found it helpful. Review this lesson now and again. As you progress you will be able to focus on finer and finer details. Stick to it!
I’m a novice at the bass (probably doesn’t need to be said given the subject matter of the video), but decently accomplished in other areas of life, and the insight about watching your plucking hand over the fretting hand is deceptively subtle. It seems to me the underlying idea is “sound bad to play well” - which sound like conflicting thoughts, when really they are not. It also incorporates a delayed gratification ethic leveraged against insight into unconscious human behavior. Great video, very helpful!
@d b Yes you should if you can. I built up a bad habit by not learning this from the start and am having to go back to change my technique.
Me too! And I concur!
I can’t believe this is free content. Thank you for making these videos! They’re amazing :)
I'm glad you like it! People need access to good lessons. Keep learning and playing!
I'm halfway through this video and I've already learned more than all the other video's I watched combined
Great! Keep learning and making music!
Hi Andrew! I am an italian bass student. I want to thank you, I am not only learning bass but also English!
Your lessons are great and you are the person I can understand in English the best!
a lot of your love for music shines through in what you do, I admire you very much.
♥♥♥♥
Thank you! I love Italians. You are some of the best people in the world. I am happy you understand things clearly. I write with non-English speakers in mind. It is a lot of editing. I am happy it is working. Keep learning (both languages!) and keep me updated on your progress. There is much more on studybass.com. Ciao!
Oh yes, almost forgot. I had never even seen a Bass before in real life, that is but my admiration for a great bass player from one of the 80's band led me to inquire about the bass which is all about rhythm and rhythm I dig: I was born in Cuba so rhythm was in the air everywhere. Tx again
Los Van Van? There is so much incredible Cuban music. Your heritage will serve you well. Cachao!!!
All other videos on that subject i watched so far left many questions...they're all covered here and presented without unneccessary talking and self display, superb !
Thank you!
So true!
I like this guy. Good instruction and no fluff
You are a very good teacher, thank you very much.
finally someone explained it in a way comprehensive
I'm happy it helped. Now...make some music...
Great lesson! I'm already working on one of those bad habits you mentioned. 😅
Great! Practice daily and it will all come together. There's a lot more on studybass.com. Keep me posted on your progress.
you are the best teacher i have ever seen, i can't thank you enough, you made me start practicing again xx
Thanks, Anil! You can thank my students who trained me. Don't stop practicing!
Today is my first days as a musician that plays a bass. And I thank you for the positivity and I second what Anil said. Thank you.
Awesome lesson, and also compliments for great close-up shots and the supporting captions. Just bought 2 basses, my daughter and I will be taught by you as of today😊
Great! Welcome to bass playing. Be patient. The beginning is the hardest part. It's all about consistent daily practice. Keep me posted on your progress. I appreciate your support.
Clear, succinct, complete! Your coverage of muting strategies alone is priceless. Less than 20 minutes to scatter PEARLS that might otherwise take years to stumble on or good luck if you happen to have the right teacher. Utter, utter bargain of a channel! Thank you.
Thank you! I'm happy you're finding helpful stuff here. There's a lot more on www.studybass.com. The website is a learning system. I don't want anyone to think that StudyBass is a UA-cam channel. :) I hope you check it out.
Keep making great music!
I'm new to bass (I bought my first one yesterday). I am watching your videos and they are so great! I can understand all you say. Congratulations, definitely I will see all your material.
Cheers.
Thanks, Leandro! There's much more on www.studybass.com and more videos coming soon. Good luck with your musical pursuits.
I’m a year in too, hope you’re still jamming as well.
As a life long guitar player I needed this plucking lesson. Playing bass correctly is not as easy as a lot of us think.
I have only recently started my expansion to bass and I found this to not only be comprehensive but very simple to understand too.
It honestly helped to improve my playing technique in one afternoon!
Great job man and I’ll be coming back!
Subbed as well 👍🏻
Welcome! I strongly encourage guitarists to think of the bass as a completely different instrument. From guitar you already know the bass' melodic potential. Approach the bass from the other side and think of it as a tuned drum. Like a harmonic bass drum. Have fun!
P.S. there's way more on studybass.com than here on YT.
As a guitar player, bass is a whole new beast. The only thing they have in common is the look. Very few of the things I learned on guitar help for bass (like fretboard knowledge). I’m trying to approach it with a different mindset than on guitar, because I know how annoying guitar players can be when switching to bass.
I am new to this method of platform. I am beginning to learn the musical alphabet and now I have access to this wonderful course and community. I am elated to get started and have enjoyed all the commentary and feedback from the Teacher 🙂. I have no knowledge of starting this process, but I am encouraged and ready to engage and go forth into learning how to become a bass player/guitarist. Thank you again sir.
Great! Welcome! There's a lot more on studybass.com than found here. Keep at it. The beginning is the hardest part. The key is to practice something every day. Have fun learning and playing!
I'm a cellist in dire need of a good plucking technique and this video helped me very much - thank you!
I'm happy it helped!
Finally a direct video. Don't have to wait 5 mins to hear 1 min of instructions. Plus I like your advice on which technique to use for muting, vs just saying "use them all"
Thanks! I hate fluff and always try to cut away the excess. Keep making music!
Of the dozens of “how to” Bass videos I’ve watched, this is the most useful and informative. I’m staggered that it doesn’t have millions of views.
Thanks! I'm happy to hear that. There are many more lessons, exercises, quizzes and more on studybass.com which you won't find here. As far as the views, some of that is due to me not playing all of the UA-cam games. I'm too busy teaching for that.
Keep me posted on your progress!
I'm mainly a guitar player who picked up the bass about 19 years ago because that's where the work was. I still think like a guitar player, and while it's done the job, there's definitely an absolute ceiling to the skill level I can reach without proper technique like this.
Unlearning and relearning the extreme basics is tough after old habits are deeply ingrained, but it really is the only way to progress past "mediocre." To those of you who are just starting on your bass journey, take this stuff seriously. These are excellent lessons and you'll be glad 5 or 10 years down the road that you took the time to learn properly.
Solid advice, I'm a guitarist too, picking up bass to aid in composition. Unlearning bad guitar habits was really tough, if I had another chance at learning an instrument I would've done it the slow and proper way from the start instead of relying on shortcuts.
For guitarists, I think the left hand as where most of the bad habits are going to form. We're used to assigning 1 finger per fret, generally, while proper bass technique generally requires you to not use the 3rd finger (ring).
"...or - god help you - more than that." Highlight of this episode.
Ghetelen that was hilarious!
I’m a beginner bassplayer and I enjoyed this lesson. Do you also have a lesson how to get the fingers of both hands more flexible? The pinky and ringfinger is going all over the place when plukking 🤗
Welcome to the bass! You're going to love playing. Yes, all of the exercises are on www.studybass.com (don't worry, they're free). Use the StudyBass Study Guide and the lessons and exercises are all methodically arranged for you. Keep me updated on your progress, and let me know if you ever have questions.
You just saved my plucking technique. Thank you so much! I got a bass yesterday and I've just noticed that I've been plucking badly. :D
Great! I wish I had had this advice a few days in. It was a few years before I figured these things out on my own. There's a lot more on studybass.com. Keep me updated on your progress.
Ive been playing bass for 10 years, ALWAYS with a pick. Great lesson. Looking forward to ptacticing this.
The pick is a great sound, too. It's great to have a wide range of sounds. Keep making music!
Wow! You just gave so much valuable information in one video whereas other videos would pull you by the nose with hours by hours. Thanks a lot!
Thanks! A person's time to learn music is limited. A part of my teaching philosophy is never to waste a student's precious time. Keep learning!
I agree with all the positive comments your video has received. The information is always straight to the point, no nonsense talking, and also providing alternatives.
I am actually looking for an opinion on thumb plucking. Could you please share your opinion?
I've just bought a bass a few days ago, never played one before, and I've been watching videos on youtube with lessons, but this one helped me fix problems that none of the other ones even mentioned. Great video, thank you for everything
Thanks! There's a lot more to learn on the website www.studybass.com. Keep learning and playing!
This is the best video i have found for muting technique and its answered so many questions for me thanks so much from a noob bass lover
I'm glad it helped. Keep learning!
Wow you're a life saver. I'm a new bass player and everything you have mentioned to avoid, i was doing it. Gonna save for later to watch again to keep everything in mind. Thank you. Subscribed!
Great! The beginning is the hardest part. Stay with it and you'll later wonder how this part was ever hard. Keep me updated on your progress and be sure to do the exercises and other material on studybass.com.
I have been watching you for 30 min and been playing at home self taught bass player and everything he says it spot on and correct I can't wait for more of your lessons as I will take very seriously and thanks for your knowledge bass brother brother we are now 🤘🤘
Great! Keep at it. The key is to practice at least something every single day. It keeps building. There's a lot more on studybass.com. Keep me posted on your progress!
Thanks so much for taking the time to teach us hopeful beginners,,! I have a long way to go before anyone-including my neighbors- can actually tell am trying to play the bass. Lol That's how green I am. Am confident now am on the right track.Videosvvery well made and explained! I learned more in a few minutes than in a week of YouTubing. Am sure I speak for many when I say am glad I found your videos!
Thanks! I'm happy you're learning. Be sure to use the free guided lessons on studybass.com. I started StudyBass before UA-cam existed, and there's only a little available here. Keep me updated on your progress.
Thanks so much, I'm gonna improve my (poor} skills by practise what you teach. This will help a lot
Great! Keep me updated on your progress. Consistent, daily practice is the key!
@@StudyBass I will do that
I have been playing guitar for 30 + years and I thought playing bass would be easy... No, no, no !!! Watching your video, I discovered why I sound so bad ! You are a good teacher. Thank you so much.
Thanks! Doing anything well is never easy. My standing advice to guitar players coming to bass is to think of the bass as a completely different instrument. Think of it like a tuned drum rather than a guitar. Really, it's both a drum kit and guitar rolled into one. (Which is pretty awesome!) You know the guitar part, so mind the drum aspect.
There's lots more on www.studybass.com that's not here on youtube. Good luck!
The clarity, and approach towards developing the mindset to receive what is to be instructed, is inspiring not only to learn what is being taught, but how to retain the right mindset while learning. This has no reason to be free, other than the goodness of empowering others. Thank you for this!
Thanks for the kind words. Everyone deserves the chance to learn music and an instrument. Music does a lot for people. Keep playing and making music!
I am a transitioning guitarist to bass player. In general it is pretty easy. But I was fristrated with ringing notes making the sound muddy. I did a search for how to control that and landed here. Dude - you provided me the perfect lesson to work on. Hopefully I can master these techniques. Thanks a ton.
Great! I've had a lot of guitar player students. I always encourage them to think of the bass as a completely different instrument. Think of the bass more like a tuned drum than simply a low-pitched guitar. You might find you play it differently. Hopefully you check out the rest of the lessons on www.studybass.com. Keep me posted on your progress!
Your speaking style is so clear and calming. I like when you summarize concepts that you just talked about into a nice, neat package. Thanks for making these videos. I'm gonna recommend your site to one of my friends who is just taking up the bass.
Thank you! People often mention my calmness, and it makes me fear what you're all being subjected to out there. Keep practicing and making music (both of you)!
exactly what i was looking for. am 56 ,have three basses and picking up where i left it. Now back to AC DC,Zep,Maiden,Rush and gonna be using my fingers henceforth. perfect demo,thank u sir.
Great! There are many more lessons on studybass.com than here. Keep me updated on your progress.
this is the best video i've found on the internet for right hand technique, and i've seen a bunch. thanks
Thanks!
Thanks for the clarity, the detailed explanation and the relaxed manner of delivering it all. It seems you cover everything that can go wrong, and help with it even before it happens. Feels great to follow you. Thanks!
Thanks! I'm happy you're learning! You can really thank my students. After 30 years of teaching lessons I've heard just about every question there is. There are many more lessons on www.studybass.com open to all.
Everyone talks about my calm manner. I don't really poke around youtube, but apparently everyone else is like a loud furniture salesman on TV! lol
This is gold. The best technique video in the whole YT
Thanks for the kind words, Arturo! I'm happy it helped.
This is the 4th video in a row I have watched on this topic. Previously I learned that I was plucking too hard. I learned that it's not my job to make the bass loud, it's the job of my amp. That's the only thing that was really clear to me. My plucking still felt uncomfortable. After watching this video, I seem to finally be feeling comfortable as I play and the subject is finally clear to me. Studybass guy, you get a like and a subscribe from me.
Sorry for the slow reply. I've been very busy with the massive studybass.com update.
I'm happy to hear this video clicked for you! I have a lot more good stuff on the way. Keep playing, learning and creating music!
Wow! That was indeed one the best lessons ever found here onUA-cam. As someone already said, it's hard to believe this is actually free content. And Scott Devine said in his videos tha people should "skip the UA-cam bass lessons roulette." If that would apply, I wouldn't have landed here. Don't get me wrong, Devine is in fact a great teacher and an amazing bass player, but hey, nobody is perfect. Studybass, thank you very much for sharing such awesome stuff! Cheers!
Thank you! I'm happy it helped. There's more on studybass.com.
There are tons of great lessons to be found all over--local teachers, books, videos. The algorithms, however, are not teachers. Their goal is to keep you on their platform as long as possible to make money off of your (practice!) time. In fact, they work you like a slot machine--they pay out just the right amount randomly to keep you hunting for more. I hate it and interact with it as little as possible; I suggest the same to my students.
My lessons have gotten buried by all of the money-making ones, but 2023 marks 20 years of free lessons, exercises and more on studybass.com. There are no ads. I appreciate any support I get, but I feel everyone deserves to learn, so the lessons are open to all. They are organized and based on my 30 years of teaching private students. I hope you check out the curricula. Keep me updated on your progress!
@@StudyBass Thank you very much for the reply, Andrew! i've already subscribed to your YT channel and also signed up (for the free account, so far...) on your web site. You just got yourself another student! I'm sure will check all your vids and free content.
Again, thank you very, very much for your help and support! Be seen ya!
🙏
You're doing God's work here. Haven't come across better, more direct, clear and comprehensive lessons. This is amazing. Keep up the great work!
Thank you! More to come after my big website update. Keep making music!
Simple, focused instruction. 👍
Thanks! That's always my aim. Keep making music!
Having just started on bass at age 48 this was just the video I was looking for. There are tons of good bass teaching videos out there, but none of them seemed to take on these topics, at least not as well. Thank you so much.
Thanks for the kind words. I have many more lessons on studybass.com open to all. Keep learning!
@@StudyBass Yes, I noticed and have already signed up. Enjoying the lessons very much and progressing with bass steadily.
Thank you for your lesson! I really like the pace of the lesson, I've found that many UA-cam teachers just blow through so fast that I can't follow what they're doing or even see their fretting. Very frustrating. Your methodical and careful approach is like the Quintessiential Bassist: focused, understated, super precise in order to get just the right tone!
Thank you! Be sure to check out studybass.com. It's a methodical learning system I started 20 years ago before youtube was even a thing. Keep me updated on your progress!
Started biting off my fingernails as I started watching this. I usually save them for weekend football game watching. Great lesson, thanks so much! I am a good example of a single finger/pick player and I am struggling with getting my fingers going now. This was very helpful.
Underrated Comment.
Oh my God, that's the video I was missing so much.
I'm trying to learn by myself (without an amp) and I was always asking myself if I was doing right, and other bass players were telling me that anyway was fine, so I was getting frustrated. And now I see it was totally wrong and can finally continue to learn.
Your website is amazing, love the exercises there, hope it soon will be updated.
xx from Brazil.
Thank you! Being able to hear yourself is critical. You can hear the details. Keep practicing!
I just want to back up all the comments here saying this is great stuff. I've played guitar for years and certainly know that playing bass is not the same as guitar with only four strings. It was a bit of a search to find useful technical lessons, most just say do this do that, but not how and with detailed demonstrations. This lesson ticks all those boxes, really great stuff👍. Excellent!
Thanks, Peter! I'm happy they're helping. There's a lot more on www.studybass.com/ Keep practicing!
Thanks a ton for the really clear explanation of plucking techniques.
Thanks! I'm happy you're here learning. There's a lot more on www.studybass.com
Keep making music!
I have tried them all and floating thumb works best for many reasons. Look at his wrist when he doesn't use the floating thumb technique at the end of the video. You want to have your wrist in a neutral position as much as possible. Thanks for the video.
Best lesson on the interwebz!
Thank you! Keep making music!
Very good lesson to review from time to time
Definitely. There are some fine details you can miss early on. Keep practicing and learning!
It is a perfect detailed lesson. I am grateful. Not just this, but for all your lessons.
Thank you very much. I'm happy you are learning and making music. Keep going!
9:50 This part is so helpful for playing September by Earth, Wind, and Fire. There’s the pattern where pluck the open A-string twice, then hit the 12th fret on the G-string then the 14th fret on the G-string. I always struggle stopping that A-string from ringing out, thank you!
Precisely! The problem shows up every once in a while and, if you don't have it, it is real trouble. Check out the string-crossing exercises on studybass.com (most of the lessons are there, not on UA-cam). Keep practicing!
Thank you for the very detailed demonstration. This is really helpful🙏🏻
Sorry for the slow reply! Thank you. I'm happy you found it helpful. You'll find many more free lessons on studybass.com. Keep me updated on your progress.
Thanks for this lesson. When I started playing bass I chose the wandering thumb technique. Now I might spend some time and learn the technique where I mute the A string mit my ring finger. As you said, this seems to be more efficient.
It won't take you too long to develop the reflex. Thanks for your support!
Really in depth video. Been picking up bass recently and between your guides on the site and bassbuzz's videos I definitely feel like I have excellent resources. This is the first of your videos I've actually checked out though since keeping strings muted when not playing them has been quite a frustrating endeavor starting out.
Thanks! Don't miss all of the exercises for this lesson and all of the other free lessons on studybass.com. Keep me updated on your progress, and let me know if you have questions.
Great explanation and demonstration, you are really great teacher as well, thank you so much for this information
I'm happy it helped. Keep practicing and learning.
Best video I've seen on this topic! Very helpful
Thanks. Go make some music!
Thank you for this tutorial. I transitioned from guitar and I've been doing bass for about a month and a half. Initially I thought I was nailing it and was able to play more advanced bass parts with ease using the wrong plucking technique of pulling from under the string, but just learnt that wasn't correct. I'm currently practicing the correct plucking method, and it does feel uncomfortable and hurts and tires my wrist out, but hopefully I will be able to get used to it and play as quickly and comfortably using the right method!
Great! Though let's not call it THE right way. It is a right way, and it should provide a great leaping off point. Be sure to see the other www.studybass.com lessons. In particular, how to hold the bass. That influences everything else a lot and could be the source of your discomfort. Keep practicing!
This is the best video ive seen on this topic so far. What about left hand techniques?
Thanks! I'm happy it helped. I recommend going through the guided lessons on studybass.com. There are many lessons with supporting exercises and more open to all. Keep making music and keep me updated on your progress.
What a great video, I've just retied from work aged 66 and now on a pension and realize i have to do something to keep my mind occupied other than gardening which i hate, I have no idea in how to play any musical instrument so i have decided to by a bass guitar, my wife thinks I'm nuts and too old but i told her ill drive her nuts if i don't find a good hobby to pass the time away. I've noticed a lot of cheap basses on ebay with a small amp going for around $300 Australian, i don't want anything fancy or costly, from reading up , there's a lot of cheap bass guitars that are really quite good for the beginner. This video is definitely a great explanation in starting, thank you.
Wonderful! Welcome to music and the bass! The beginning is the toughest part. Practice daily and be patient. It will all start coming together. There many more lessons on studybass.com presented in a structured way with exercises and more. Keep me updated on your progress and let me know if you have questions.
Oh My Goodness… why I didn’t discover your video sir… i
I wish I learned this before… but anyway thank you so much I learned a lot. More power to your chanell
Thanks! Be sure to check out the website. I started studybass.com before youtube existed. Keep learning and making music!
Extraordinary good lesson, many thanks for the great work. My first bass arrived yesterday, and luckily found your video right at the start of my journey!
Thanks! There's a lot more on the website (www.studybass.com/) that's not on UA-cam.
You're going to love playing the bass. Consistent *daily* practice is the key. Keep at it!
I learned the ring finger muting technique going through the lessons at StudyBass, it was so well explained that it became a natural technique for me. I reckon Mr. Pouska didn't went through the wandering and floating thumb techniques on the website because they are a bit less efficient, but is awesome that he showcase them here in the video to have alternatives, awesome vid as always :D
Well, the website is updated now, but I remember that when I first went through that lesson, only the ring finger technique was being explained... or maybe is the only one that I payed attention to? hahahaha, aaaanyways.
Thanks, Mr. Mario! I'm glad you like the video. I'm working on the next one...
The wandering thumb method was there, but you saw the glorious light of the ring finger and skipped over it. :) I did clear it up some, and I added the floating thumb part since I have so many students ask about it. Options are good.
A very good lesson , I was looking for a good tutorial , this is gonna help me a lot.
Thanks! There's much more on studybass.com. Keep me updated on your progress.
I just started playing about a month ago and I can already say that these instructional videos have been a huge asset for me. The part at 16:30 about watching my plucking hand was so helpful and I probably would have never considered that on my own.
I'm happy to hear it. There are lots of tips throughout the website like that. Keep playing and learning!
It's all about the technique, thanks for sharing
I'm happy you liked it. Keep making music!
So much to take in! I started studybass yesterday, and have just been reading so far. I knew nothing about music but now I can name the notes on the fretboard, slowly though.
That's great! Welcome! Take your time and enjoy learning. It never stops. Practice daily!
I am trying to re-learn something I have not done in over 25 years! I am self taught and originally, played by ear. I can't believe how many bad habits I had in the begging! But these videos are taking me in the right direction I feel. Teaching me the right way and exercising my patience with learning music. One day I will get comfortable with playing again and if I stay the course I will experience again the great joy playing music bought me in my youth!
That's great, Rodney! You might not realize it, but you've learned a lot over those 25 years with all of the music you've listened to. Stick to it. Be patient with yourself. Enjoy the process.
I have searched the internet and this is the first really clear and thorough explanation of muting I have seen. Well done and thank you sir!
Great! Muting makes such a big difference. Keep making music!
@@StudyBass I will do my best! Is it too awkward to just use your left index finger to "bar" across the G, D, and A strings whenever you play a note on any of those string, thereby muting the 2 open strings?
Well, there are no rules, but I think that would get in the way down the road. The first finger is often pretty busy as it is. I wouldn't give it more jobs when there are other fingers lazing about. The beginning is hard. Just keep working at it daily.
You remind me of a nicer version of my dad, he's a professional bass player among other things, but so hard and mean and demanding it crushed my desire to learn, but growing up around it I still picked up piano but had an aversion at a point, but now as adult I bought a bass a few times and this time really having fun thanks to your easy-going but straightforward instruction..Hope you grow and thrive!
Sorry to hear about your rough start with music. I'm sure he meant well. Parents teaching their kids doesn't always go well. Keep going. Even the not fun parts are pretty fun!
Thank You! Great class... You are a really good teacher!
Thank you! Be sure to follow the lesson plan on studybass.com. Keep practicing and keep me updated on your progress!
Clean and understand your teaching awesome sir thanks ❤️
Thank you. Keep making music!
Guitarist (including classical) who bought an electric 4 string bass 5 days ago, but had Q's about right hand. Excellent info. Thanks!!!
Thanks, Ken! Have fun with your new bass.
Wow, this is so comprehensive.
I’m a beginner and this is exactly what I need at the moment.
Thank you.
God bless you😀
Great! The beginning is the hardest part. Stick to it even when things seem impossible. You will get there.
Best ever instruction! Thanks.
Thank you! Keep practicing, don't miss all the stuff on studybass.com, and keep me posted on your progress.
This lesson is amazing. I had some questions about plucking and you answered them all.
That's great to hear! Thanks. Keep on playing!
THX for this great vid! Must see for Beginners! 👊
Thanks! Make some great music with it!
Thank you so much I freaking love you!!! This video will help a lot, I'm a guitar player and just started with bass.
Great! Welcome to the bass. I always urge guitar players to think of the bass as a totally different instrument than the guitar. Think of the bass as a tuned drum. Of course, it does much more. But, this is a perspective guitar players often miss. It's like learning a drum kit with notes. Keep practicing!
Thank you for all your videos. Your a solid bassist. Respect dude
Thanks, my friend. Keep making music!
Well done, sir. You have such a good presentation. Best musical tutorial videos I've ever watched. Thanks
Thank you so much! I love to teach. There is a lot more on studybass.com than you'll find here. Keep making music!
Awesome stuff - I get my first bass on Tuesday and come from guitar - this is a huge help. Thanks so much!
Great! Welcome to the bass! I always tell my students coming from guitar to think of bass as a completely different instrument. Think of it as a pitched drum rather than just a low-pitched guitar. They look similar and there's overlap of course, but guitar and bass have different functions. There's much more on studybass.com to explore. Keep me posted on your progress!
@@StudyBass Thanks very much - that is very thoughtful - pitched drum - I get it!
Excellent, very useful video
Thank you so much, this is by far one of the best videos to understand most of right hand do's and dont's for starters. I was having problems with which technique to use when muting the A string and the G string, greetings from MX!
Great! The muting makes a big difference. Keep at it. It will soon be a reflex.
You are a very good teacher..
Sorry for the slow reply. I've been very busy with the massive studybass.com update.
Thank you kindly! Keep making music. We need it!
Thank you very much! This has helped me greatly
I'm happy to hear it! There's a lot more on www.studybass.com than you'll find here. Keep at it!
Thanks you so much for this video and especially StudyBass! You basically taught me how to play the bass so, thank you so much!
Thanks, Sam. I'm glad it has helped. Keep on learning...
Thank you for taking the time putting these videos out there !
Just came across this. Great lesson, and I want that Zon bass!
Thanks! Yeah, the Zon is pretty awesome. Keep making music!
Just echoing how good of a lesson this is!! So glad I found this. Just subscribed!! THANK YOU. :)
Thank you! I'm happy you're here. Daily practice is the key. Keep me up-to-date on your progress.
Thanks for you comprehensive exploration of each technique! I'm more of a thumb muter when it comes to the a string, but I will try out the other methods!
Thanks. I still have a lot more to cover. Having any consistent muting strategy is the important part. Explore, though. Keep making music!
Excellent tutorial.
Thanks! There are many more lessons on studybass.com. Keep me updated on your progress.
Really detailed explanation that really helped me. Thank you, you're a great teacher!
Keep at it! The beginning is the hardest part.
Well that was one great tutorial! As a long time guitar player starting bass for the first time, I've watched a few others videos on the subject, and this one is by far the clearest and most complete I stumbled on :) Thanks a lot
Thanks, Arthur! I hope you'll check out the rest of the lessons on www.studybass.com. Keep learning and making music!
@@StudyBass That's great stuff! I've checked some more of your videos, and seems there are a lot of very valuable content on your website :) I've own my bass for only 8 days, but I'm really having fun everyday, and already getting improvement on my plucking and muting (which, coming from the guitar, is the most difficult I feel)
Thank you for these videos!! I’m a beginning and they’re clear, concise and help me know exactly what I need to work on. You’re doing great work
Thank you! I'm happy they're helping. The beginning is the worst part. Keep at it!
Excellent explanation and very well organized! You got a new subscriber
Welcome! There's a lot to explore on www/studybass.com, too. Keep making music!