Bass Guitar 1B

About this course

The course develops bass guitar technique through work on left- and right-hand positions, fretboard movement, scales and arpeggios. Learners explore chord symbols, chord sequences, rhythm, tempo and basic grooves in styles including swing, rock, R&B, funk and shuffle funk. Exercises are played with the tutor, using guitar, piano or backing tracks, and the course includes improvisation on contemporary grooves. Teaching is supported by feedback, advice and question-and-answer sessions, with opportunities to perform with other musicians.

What you'll learn

• Apply left- and right-hand positions and fretboard techniques
• Play scales and arpeggios across a range of patterns
• Read basic chord symbols and follow chord sequences
• Maintain time and play in tempo
• Perform basic grooves in swing, rock, R&B, funk and shuffle funk styles
• Improvise over grooves in contemporary musical styles

Is this course right for you?

This beginner course is suitable for complete beginners, while the overview also refers to learners with around one term’s experience. Participation involves playing exercises with the tutor and performing with other musicians.

• No previous bass guitar experience is required
• Includes playing with tutor accompaniment or backing tracks
• Includes performance with other musicians

Before you go

• Participants should bring their own bass guitar and a pen or pencil.
• Electronic amplifiers are provided by the college, with instruction on their safe use.
• Learners are encouraged to bring earplugs because lessons may involve high volume levels.
• Handouts are provided for classwork, and play-along backing tracks are supplied for practice outside class.