How to Play Bass Guitar Videos

Guide Note

Because it only has four strings, it might be thought that the bass guitar might be thought of as one of the simpler instruments to learn to play, especially compared to the six-stringed guitar. But the bass guitar is just as difficult to master.

The videos collected on this page are some of the best online resources that will introduce you to playing the bass guitar. For a comprehensive tutorial on everything from playing notes to understanding rhythms, check out Mahalo's guide on How to Play Bass Guitar.

Fast Facts

1. Played primarily with the fingers either by plucking, slapping, popping, tapping or using a pick
2. 4-string standard tuning from low to high: E A D G
3. Traditionally has four strings
4. 5- and 6-string models are also popular
5. The bass Guitar is similar in appearance and construction to an Electric Guitar
6. Will only play one note at a time, unlike multi-tonal instruments like the piano

Bass-Playing Tips

1. Try playing sitting and standing up, then practice in whichever position is most comfortable
2. Make sure to rest weight of the bass on your guitar strap to free your hands
3. Press down in between frets, not on them, to play the proper note
4. Holding down strings will hurt your fingertips at first, but they will eventually grow calluses

1. Finger Style
2. Using a Pick
3. Slap Bass
4. Tapping