Top Ten Things Professional Bass Players Always Do

1. Always Come On Time

It’s important to always arrive on time (or early) to a show. Not only does it show your professionalism, but that you take your job seriously.

2. Come Prepared

Preparation is key for any show. Have extras of anything that you need will guarantee that you are always prepared no matter what obstacles may come in your way.

3. Have A Solid Repertoire

You should know lots of songs, and be able to play them even better.

4. Use Rehearsal Time To Rehearse Not Practice

Rehearsals are not personal practicing time, and it can be very disappointing for your crowd if it’s treated as such. Make sure you get all your practice in at home, or when you get together with your band.

5. Have Reliable Gear

It’s important to have reliable gear that is well maintained to ensure that you don’t have any malfunctions during a show.

6. Budget and Save

As a bass player, you’ll quickly learn that your music gear is costly. Things like pedals that are designed for bass are universally more expensive in comparison to those made for guitars. Because of the higher prices of the items that you will need, it is important for every bass player to budget and save accordingly, so you can have the gear that you want.

7. Support Others

One of the most important jobs that bass players do is set the foundation for the other members of the band. They work with the drummer to create the rhythm section, which is the basis on which lead instruments and vocalists work on top of.

8. Work Well With Others

Bass players always have to be “in tune” with the drummer and be able to recognize their strengths and weaknesses so they can stay in sync.

9. Are Flexible

Life as a bass player requires you to be flexible and adaptable. There are many things that can be thrown at you, like live sound issues, and it’s important to be able to take things as they come.

10. Have Patience

There is a misconception that playing bass is an easy and boring job. Many people don’t understand all the intricacies of what it takes to be a bass player and what a big job it actually is. If you don’t have the patience, you’ll spend most of your time correcting people instead of doing what you do best..playing. 

For all of your live instrument needs visit us at Tapestry Music. Any needs you may have from wanting lessons to repair services, we are here to help.