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Bass Guitar Lessons

bass guitar lessons illustration

Overview

The bass guitar is the heartbeat of any band, providing the groove that gets people moving and makes music come alive. Whether you dream of playing in a band, laying down cool basslines at a jam session, or simply enjoying the rich, deep sounds on your own, the bass guitar offers endless possibilities for creativity and fun!

At DCAM, we make learning the bass guitar an enjoyable and progressive experience. Our approach combines essential technique with songs and styles that resonate with you. Our instructors customize lessons to suit each individual's skill level and musical interests, ensuring a personalized and engaging learning journey.

guitar lesson in progress

What is a good age to start bass guitar lessons?

We recommend starting bass guitar lessons at the age of six. At this age, most children have developed the physical ability to comfortably handle a small bass guitar and possess the finger strength needed to press down the strings. However, if your child is younger and you believe they are ready to start, we would be delighted to offer a free trial lesson and provide our professional recommendation.

Lesson Format

Private lessons: these are one-on-one lessons with student and teacher. Private lessons are a great option for students looking for highly-focused and individualized music instruction. The teacher is able to give their full attention to one student and students normally progress faster in this environment.

Semi-private lessons: these lessons consist of two students per teacher. Semi-private lessons can be a budget-friendly option for parents with two children or two friends wanting to learn the same instrument together. The one obvious drawback is that students don't receive as much focused and individualized attention from the teacher as they do with private lessons.

Lesson Duration

At DCAM, students can choose between 30-minute, 45-minute, or 1-hour lessons. Small children generally start with 30-minute lessons and increase lesson duration as they get older and/or with the recommendation from their teacher. For teenagers and adults, a minimum lesson time of 45 minutes is strongly recommended.

Materials

bass guitar books

Beginning students can start out with one of our beginner method books, which provide a solid foundation for new bass guitarists, covering essential skills such as reading tablature, understanding basic rhythms, and playing along with fun songs. After completing the series, students are encouraged to explore songs that interest them. They can also join our "Band Experience" program, where they can experience playing in a group setting with other instruments and musicians.

Instruments

For young children, smaller-sized bass guitars with lighter gauge strings are recommended to reduce strain on the fingers. It's important to select a bass that fits the child's size and age, which can be bought or rented from most music stores or directly from us. Students are expected to have their own bass guitar and bring it with them to every lesson.

guitar lesson in progress

Styles

Students can choose to learn any musical style they want on the bass guitar, such as rock, jazz, funk, etc. Our teachers to their best to tailor lesson material to the student's interest.

Teachers

bass teacher Matthew

Matthew

bass guitar, upright bass

Our teachers are all qualified professionals and passionate musicians. We do our best to match a student with a teacher that we think would best fit their musical goals as well as their personalities. We understand that while some students prefer a relaxed teaching approach, there are always those for whom a more strict approach is more effective. Students also have the option to request to change their teacher if they wish to do so. Learn more about our teachers on our Teachers Section.

Just fill out our quick trial lesson form and wait to hear from us within 1-2 business days. If you like your trial lesson, you can sign up for regular lessons with us! Our lessons are available online (Zoom or Skype) as well as in-person if you live close to our location. Start learning your favorite instrument with one of our amazing teachers today!