Bass Guitar Lesson Videos
I am currently in pre-production on a bass instruction video series that will be available on my website johndimodica.com. In the meantime, however, if you play bass, I invite you to provide some ideas of topics YOU would like to see included in this video teaching series. So, I invite you to take a moment now to provide your thoughts in this blog. I am eager to hear what you have to say! Be sure to check back regularly to read my updates regarding how the pre-production is going.
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Hey! John. Good to see the pursuit of your passion is in full bloom.
My family and I are well, And business is good. I am not a face book
person either.Yes keep me informed and updated. we are still loving TSC
and all It Has to offer. As far insight to your teaching video I would like
some teaching on how to achieve different tones with out high end gear.
Be Blessed
Steve Wade
Hi John,
Nice to know you are sharing your professional expertise with others. I’m sure the video will be great. You might consider speaking with Roy Vogt, as he has done these things as well, and would probably offer a wealth of info. Thanks for the invite to share. Here are some of my insights accumulated over a pro career now spanning thirty eight years, in all kinds of settings:
In my experience truly great bassists and drummers never practice without a metronome (or other time keeper). I’ve had very talented students before who were amazing, but had lousy time, which made all those chops totally worthless. They would actually be well served to always strive to play with drummers with good time during the learning process; listen carefully to the kick on pop and country, and the hat/backbeat on swing music. Also instead of being totally focused on their part, really listen to what is going on around them. That includes harmonic motion in the chording instruments like piano and guitar, as well as the vocal melody. Let the bass part breathe by incorporating rests, and other interesting dynamics, and articulations to create interest. Monotony will turn the listener off in a heartbeat. Also, don’t be afraid of visual communication with the drummer. Actually watch. I believe by sticking to no nonsense fundamentals as a bassist, one’s work will always shine. Save the fancy stuff for a special moment and make it count. The bass line should always be complimenting and enhancing a performance and should never get in the way. All the great instrumentalists know how to make art with simplicity.
Excellent and much needed idea John. One topic I recommend is encouraging bass players and drummers to understand the importance of parts, especially in any music remotely “pop”. In other words, just like the guitar and keyboard players put signature licks and motifs throughout songs, the bass and drums should do the same. It creates interest without chaos – a strong foundation that contributes to the overall character and sound of the track.
Second is the concept of melody. Bass players and drummers add more and stand out as musicians if they understand rhythm as an inherent characteristic of their instruments and therefore concentrate on playing melodically and harmonically.
Hi John. I’m excited for you and this project. The comments provided so far are very worthwhile. Naturally, emphasis on groove and strong harmonic and melodic skills, ear, time, etc. are all great and should go without saying…one would think. I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions about bass tone, instrument choice, and marketing yourself. Clearly, you’re doing that with a blog and reaching out for ideas to the music community. Some real stories might go a long way. For example, “I brought my six string in and the engineer cringed. I then pulled out my P-bass and I made a friend for life.” Those kinds of things would really stand out. Instruction that can set musicians on course for being able to survive and make a living would be a breath of fresh air. God bless you John and your efforts. Look forward to seeing you again soon.
-Neal
Hi John, this sounds like a great idea and thanks for asking us to throw our two cents in. Some of the best advice I received early on was to make sure my bass was set up by a professional. Many students spend big money on their instruments but never spend the few bucks to have it fine tuned by a pro. If a players instrument isn’t in it’s peak condition the player is unnecessarily handicapped right out of the starting gate. For instance I’ve heard very low quality bases sound like a million bucks while some very expensive ones have sounded like they were bought from a Wallgreens. Committing to practice and discipline in technique should also be coupled with the discipline to keep their instruments in tip top shape.