My 2026 Bass Practice

Week 3 Challenge 16th Note Syncopation

I used a little of Ian's bassline, and tried to build my own. It's a lot simpler, of course. I used 3 different type of drum grooves, and used the metronome to establish my groove.
Nov 5 2026

The metronome mastery with a groove

Homework Assignment: Create your own bassline over the supplied 93 BPM drum groove. You can work out your idea without the drums first, then bring the groove in when you’re ready.

Once you find something you like, repeat it and commit to it. Play it several times in a row,

Syncopation Part 1:
8th Note Mastery

Eighth notes: Include a steady stream of eighth notes somewhere in your groove.

Eighth-note syncopation: Experiment with placing notes on the offbeats.

The short-long eighth-note bounce: Use note length and articulation for extra character.

Blindfolded practice

I used my mind’s eye to picture the form of the song and keep track of where I was. I also said my landmarks out loud—“Head,” “Section A,” “Final” etc —to keep my place and stop my brain from wandering off on its own little adventure.
September 13 2026

But on what beat number?

Jazz musicians often describe 2 and 4 as the backbeat. The drummer's hi-hat commonly marks those beats, while the bass and other instruments interact with that pulse.

So instead of thinking: "The metronome tells me where the beat is."

you're learning to think: "I know where the beat is, and the metronome is just confirming it." (from ChatGPT)
Sept 27 2026

Laika- Spanish song from Mecano

I researched a little about Laika and the history behind the song, and I tried to understand the meaning of the lyrics so I could connect more with what I was singing. I also recorded myself singing the song in Spanish and put together a short presentation about the story, the song, and Mecano.
September 6 2026

Lullaby of Birdland- Jazz Standard

I’m playing bass along with Lullaby of Birdland while reading from the lead sheet. I’ve added my own observations about my playing as I go. This was a great exercise in listening, reading the changes, and trying to keep the bass line moving. I’m sharing the process—including the things I think worked and the things I still need to work on! September 9 2026

The Chicken

" The Chicken " or simply " Chicken " is an instrumental funk tune composed by Pee Wee Ellis that was the B-side to James Brown 's 1969 single "The Popcorn".
June 17 2026

Sandu- Jazz Standard

Walking like nothing before! I talk about the hote sequences. I think it's educational if you are studying bass.
August 12 2026

Andar Conmigo

This is my very first Spanish Song. I learned it as part of my Spanish Assignment. I'm taking a University Spanish Course. Lyrics are Spanish and in English!

June 2026

Bass practice

I've been working on this walking bass line1 3 6 5 around the Circle of Fifths (or descending fourths) and wanted to share a snippet of my practice session. The notes are included on screen so you can follow along and incorporate the ideas into your own playing.
June 10 2026