For this article a few simple tips of what you can do before you actually take up any Bass lessons with a private Bass guitar tutor. There are some things you can do at home before you make  start with your lessons. These tips will make the start easier and you will get more out of your lessons.

When you get your first bass check if you can hold the Bass comfortably.  Sit down with the Bass and try to keep the neck in balance so the Bass does not fall down to the floor.Is it too heavy or maybe to light? Try different Basses if you can to see what works for you. For children I recommend you have a look at the www.Gear4music. com site. Look for their Kits Bass Guitars page, they have a fantastic range of 3/4 seize Bass guitars. I am sure you will find something in there you will like!

Once you have your first bass you will need to tune it. If you have bought your Bass from a pack, the pack will include a tuner. Find out how it works and make a start tuning your bass. Tuning your own instrument is part of playing the Bass (or guitar) Make a habit of tuning the Bass before you start playing. You will get the hang of it quickly.

Now you have tuned the Bass let us make a start playing the open strings. The Bass does have four strings, and all of those strings have their own musical name: The lowest (thickest) string is called an E, the next string underneath is called an A, the one directly below is called a D and finally ,the thinnest string of them all, is called a G.
Being aware of the note names is a good thing, it also makes the communication easier: You will know which string to play whenever a particular string is mentioned.

Okay, so far so good, let us now make a start playing the open E string: Rest your thumb on the pick-up (look the finger position in the image above—the Thumb is resting on one of the pick-ups ( the black piece of plastic) while the first and middle finger are being used to play the string—
Use your first finger to strike the E string from underneath. Make sure you get a nice, smooth sound. We do not want any popping string noises! Once you have used your first finger, now do the same but now using your middle finger. When you do it right you get a “walking movement”. This is probably the most important playing technique for the Bass.  Play the E string over and over again using the walking movement. Once it starts to feel comfortable, move on to the A string and do the same, Similar for the D string and finally play the G string.

You are now ready to start using your fingers to fret the notes, at this point you may want to make a start with your Bass lessons. If you live in the Leeds region why not give me a call on 07796 808633 to see what I can do for you?

Thanks and speak to you soon!
Eddie