BASS GUITAR PRIMER

Position the fingers of your playing hand one fret apart each. Ex. On the 1st string, press down on the 1st fret with your first finger (img.1) - 2nd fret, 2nd finger (img.2) - 3rd fret, 3rd finger (img.3) - And 4th fret, 4th finger (img 4).

img.1

img.2

img.3

img.4

Keep your thumb behind your middle finger in the center of the neck (img.5). Many bassists allow their thumb to hang over the top edge of the bass. There are some techniques that require this positioning but overall it will slow you down when playing scales. When you are not playing a note your fingers should remain in this position, one half inch above the string. Always keep your thumb in contact with the neck of your bass. This positioning should be used anywhere on the fretboard.

img.5

Read this section again and again until proper positioning of your hands become second nature. Get in the habit of checking your positioning every time you play your bass. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT!