It's never easy to venture into a new instrument. You might have questions like "how do I tune my bass?", "How do I choose my first bass?", or "How do I learn to play?".

Electric Bass vs. Double Bass

First and foremost, let's get clear on the difference between an electric bass and a double bass, so you can learn more about what sets the two types apart and which bass is right for you.

Electric Bass

Sound: Imagine a bass that can play anything from rock to jazz - that's the electric bass. It uses electronics and amplification to create a modern and energetic sound.
Size: It is lighter and more compact, so you can take it anywhere without hassle.
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Contrabass

Sound: Think of the deep and warm tone from classical music - that's the double bass. It utilizes its hollow body to create a traditional and elegant sound through resonance.
Size: Larger and heavier, but it's worth it for the authentic musical experience.

 

Does a bass have 4, 5, or 6 strings?

When it comes to the bass's strings, there are usually four strings, but the development of the electric bass has provided new possibilities, meaning you can even find them with five or six strings.

Now, when we talk about strings, there are some different kinds. There are the so-called "round wound" strings, which work well for rock music. And then we have "flat wound" strings, which provide a nice warm tone, perfect for jazz and soul.

Overview of bass chords

When it comes to the bass, we're after individual notes in chords rather than full chords like you find on a guitar.
The idea is to add a solid and stable rhythmic foundation that makes the music flow without getting too complicated.
The bassist acts as a rhythmic guide, keeping track of the tempo and ensuring that the whole band is in sync.

So even though our play isn't always flashy, it's crucial for creating the cohesive sound that any music lover can appreciate.

In fact, the bass and drummer work hand in hand to support each other's rhythms, creating a solid rhythmic foundation for the music. Typically, it's the drummer who dictates the rhythm while the bass complements the drums, especially the powerful beats on the kick drum.

Scales - what are they?

When we talk about scales on bass, we're referring to sequences of tones that help you create coherent music. Let's look at some basic scales that you can practice at home.

To start, it would be a good idea to look at the following scales G major, G minor, and G minor pentatonic:

G Major scale:
Structure: This scale consists of 7 tones plus one octave, totaling 8 tones.




G Minor scale:
Structure: Similar to the G Major scale, consisting of 7 tones plus one octave.



G Minor pentatonic scale:
Structure: Consists of 5 tones plus one octave, providing a more minimalist sound than the full minor scales.




To get better at bass, it's a good idea to practice these scales regularly so you can play them inside out. These scales are certainly essential to know if you want to improve on bass.

Maintaining your bass

I've gathered some friendly tips and tricks to preserve your bass's shine and tone.

Storage:
It can be a good idea to invest in a sturdy bass guitar bag or a padded gig bag. And remember, a hard shell is your bass's best friend during transport.
Temperature and humidity can also be crucial. Give your bass the same climate you'd love. Avoid leaving it in the car during summer - your bass doesn't like it.Jackson Gigbag for Bass Guitar 

Cleaning:
Daily cleaning is good for your bass. Additionally, try to wash your hands before playing to avoid dirt.
A good tip for maintaining your fretboard (depending on the wood type) is to rub it with lemon oil. It will prolong the bass's lifespan.
You can also give your bass a light polish. Use a microfiber cloth and some guitar spray to keep it shiny and new.

String Change:
Don't forget to change the strings when they become tired. It not only extends their lifespan but also makes your bass sound better.