Video Learning

• Various videos are available that teach bass playing. One such video is from accomplished bassist George Urbaszek. Urbaszek says that you should not concentrate on music theory too much. Rather, concentrate on how the notes sound, and hum (or "vocalize") the notes. Later, adapt the vocalization to the bass, playing each note.
  
  

Time Signatures

• Dan Lasley teaches the intricacies of time signatures. For example, he defines what 4/4 time is, and how it has four beats to the measure. He describes in detail how a beginning bassist learns time signatures and how it relates to being in a band. Some examples of songs are provided, such as Billy Joel's "Piano Man," which is in 3/4 time.
  
  

Scale Developer

• Study Bass offers a free online scale developer. You pick the type of bass, such as four- or five-string. Then pick the notes to which the strings are tuned. Click on the "scale" tab, and pick which scale you want, such as major or minor. The program will give you a printout of the scale, or where you put your fingers. Experiment with the program and pick various scales. Bear in mind you must memorize scale patterns. This is only done by countless hours of practicing.
  
  

Finger Exercises

• Instructors at Play Bass provide finger exercise instructions. These are a series of fingering patterns for the fretboard. Fingers are labeled one through four. Index finger is one, and the pinky finger is four. You follow the patterns presented, such as placing fingers one through four on various strings. You develop hand-eye and finger coordination by following the patterns. Again, you will become proficient only by practicing.