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Photo: Shuker Singlecut Elite Q: I see a lot of people talking about the use of bass ramps. I see that’s it’s basically a piece of wood in between the pickups, but I’m not sure what the benefits are. Also, how do you make one? A: A ramp (or finger ramp) was created out of... »
Bass Harmonics: Middle of the String Harmonics
We’ve found where the most common harmonics are at the end of the fingerboard, and also toward the nut. Today, let’s find the most common harmonics in the middle part of the string. In the examples below, the lower staff tells us where to put place our fingers and find the harmonic. The upper staff... »
Last time we found some of the most common harmonics as they are played at the end of the fingerboard. Since the placement of harmonics on the string “mirror” themselves from the mid point (i.e. you find the same notes toward the nut as you do toward the bridge) we can find the harmonics from... »
Expanded Harmonics: More on Locations and Patterns
Last time we talked about how to find out where harmonics occur on a string by dividing the string into equal parts. Below you will find a more straightforward representation of the specific harmonics that can be found at the end of the fingerboard on each string. We will be placing the thumb on the... »
Harmonics: A Starter Guide for Bassists
Whatever the genre, we bassists seem to love harmonics. From Jaco to Dittersdorf, bass music is full of them. When we are introduced to playing harmonics however, the prospect can be a bit tricky. At first, we may be unsure where the harmonics are on the string, or what note will sound when we attempt... »
Versatility: A Guide for Bassists
Q: Like a lot of the guys out there on the scene, you make a living playing a wide variety of styles. I have a hard enough time trying to play well in any one style of music. How do you get so comfortable in so many different kinds of musical settings? A: I think... »
Best of 2012: Top 10 Bass How To’s, Columns and Lessons
Just in time for your new year’s resolutions, here are the top 10 most popular bass lessons, how to’s and columns from 2012. From practicing and technique to advice on life as a musician, these features should help you make big musical strides in 2013. 1. Finger-Style Funk Bass Lesson: Build Dexterity and Accuracy in... »
No Bass Amp? A Guide to Hearing Yourself Practice
Q: My amp and most of my gear got confiscated when I got to college because they said it was a fire hazard. What do you recommend for some amp-less ways for me to get my sound amplified? I really have no idea. A: My first question is: what kind of amp did you have... »
Playing a Gig with No Prep Time: A Guide for Bass Players
Q: I will soon be filling in on a gig with no rehearsals or charts. I’m a little freaked out. They said we’d get a few minutes during sound check to run through a tune or two, but how can I expect to play well when I can’t really prepare? A: I feel your pain,... »