This slap bass study features a relatively sparse bass part. The line was inspired by ‘Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)’, a classic song by Sly & The Family Stone. This song holds an important position in the history of the slap technique as it is considered to be one of the first recorded […]

This study piece explores the ways in which harmonics can be used on the bass guitar. Harmonics are often used in solo compositions, but they can also be used within basslines, as is the case here. This piece will demonstrate how harmonics can be used to add melodic interest to your lines. It will also […]

This study piece is a classic rock-themed workout for your plectrum playing. Rock basslines can be great fun to play, particularly if they involve doubling riffs with the guitar, playing fills, and moving melodically between chords. All of these elements are present here, making this a great piece to get your teeth into. Don’t forget […]

This disco-themed study piece is a great workout for the fingerstyle technique. The bass plays a key role in this style of music, often playing melodic, chord tone-based lines, as well as the more obvious root-octave grooves. Don’t forget to hit the Download Resources button above in order to download the PDF transcription and audio […]

This study is a solo piece that is suitable for players who have covered the fundamentals of the two-handed tapping technique. As you’ll discover, being able to play in two parts of the neck simultaneously will allow you to create sounds that are not possible with more conventional bass playing techniques. Don’t forget to hit […]

This study piece will help you to incorporate several phrasing techniques into your slap bass playing. These include hammer-ons and pull-offs, trills, vibrato and slides, all of which will really help bring your lines to life. You’ll also learn how to control note length when using the slap technique. Don’t forget to hit the Download […]

This piece is a pop punk style track that is a great workout for your plectrum technique. Learning this piece will encourage you to consider the correct application of down and upstrokes. Despite the quick tempo, you’ll hopefully find this piece easier to learn than it sounds. Don’t forget to hit the Download Resources button […]

This piece is a classic rock track that is a great workout for the fingers. When working through this piece you’ll encounter riffs played in unison with the guitar, eighth note-based grooves, and a short, simple bass solo. This piece will also get you acquainted with the sound of the blues scale, meaning that there’s […]

This study piece is a solo bass composition that will get you acquainted with the chordal fingerstyle technique. This involves playing the strings of the bass using the thumb and fingers of the picking hand. Although this is a technique that is more commonly associated with the guitar, you’ll find that it works equally well […]

This study piece has a relatively slow tempo. In addition to playing conventional supportive grooves, the bass is also the featured instrument here, taking on many of the main melodic lines. Using the instrument in this way recalls the work of Marcus Miller, whose influence can be clearly heard throughout the composition. Although there are […]