String Tone

The tone of the bass will alter depending on where along the string is plucked. Plucking closer to the bridge will give a brighter more crisp tone. Plucking closer to the neck will give a warmer deeper tone.

As your playing ability develops you will become more comfortable with getting the most out of the tones that the bass has to offer. At first it may be best to find one position that feels comfortable and that produces a well-balanced tone.

Getting a Balanced Tone

If you position the thumb near to the neck pick up, just above the E string, it will usually leave your hand in a central position between the neck and bridge. This position should produce a well-balanced bass and treble tone.

Exercise

Play through the notes displayed on the tab exploring the tones that are produced by your bass. Also attempt to find a well-balanced tone. In the demonstration videos the bass lines are played firstly with an adjusting tone on notes then also with a balanced tone.

Things to think about:

• How the tone alters when the string is plucked at different points
• Where a well-balanced tone is produced on your bass

Exercise 1

Easy Tab

Standard Tab

Exercise 2

Easy Tab

Standard Tab

Exercise 3

Easy Tab

Standard Tab

Exercise 4

Easy Tab

Standard Tab

Keep practicing this week’s exercises focusing on the different tones you are able to get from your bass and also finding the position for a good balanced tone. In next week’s lesson we will be looking at fretting technique.