Julia please tell your parents they did an amazing job raising you and giving you such good taste in music. I hope to be able to see you play live one day.
I play mostly with my fingers. But I use a pick for certain things. Playing with a pick can be easier in a couple instances. 1) If you're playing metal or something that requires super fast picking. 2) If you're singing. Playing with a pick allows you to establish a consistent, fluid strumming motion that makes it easier to sing over. That's why you'll often see bass players who sing use a pick.
I would add that picking also has a sound and nuances that can't be replicated with fingers, and vice-versa. Both are essential techniques IMO to be a well roundes bass player. I'm going to experiment with a hard pick with a soft silicon coating that mimics the feel of fingers to see if I can get a pick to sound like playing with fingers......
I'd like to report the MLT as a possible contender for this honor: mostly guitar, a little bit of bass and cello, etc. and millions of views on some of their videos with covers and original music, e.g.: ruclips.net/video/7HLvbZQpPzU/видео.html - "Sunshine Superman - MonaLisa Twins (Donovan Cover) // Live at the Cavern Club".
Two best parts of this entire video for me, is at 1:23 ...when emotion floods over Julia as she says,,,,.."Then..the bass love started." Born bassist right there folks. The other is when she says she wanted to play music she could dance to----bass player right there too. It's all about the groove moving you.Thanks Julia!
Thanks for answering my question Julia. I went on a bought a Squier pj 4-string along with a small Rumble LT25 amp. Struggling a little bit with the setup of the bass, but I'll get there. Many thanks!
you're spot on about using a pick ...and also, I thought i'm the only doing it so i'm not sharing this even with my bandmates...about mixing strings!!!....I'm really ecstatic when you said it....I bought different brands of string, either, nickel plated and stainless steel roundwound...i do it to achieve a specific sound from each of the strings....based on a genre of music we're doing....you are cool!!
Thank you Julia, for your answer about standing/sitting while practicing...I was having some trouble with my back as well, and when I lowered my strap it seems to have helped! Your playing is fun to watch and listen too...your love for playing bass is so obvious, you have a wonderful smile. Thanks again.
Thanks for answering my question. As a guitar player I prefer using my fingers anyway, however I'm trying to use a pick more. For the bass I haven't tried using a pick, yet.
Thannnnnk you Julia & Thomann’s for these RUclips vids. Julia, you’re incredible. You’re lessening the intimidation factor w/every vid I watch of yours. As a kid I tried picking up the flute & five string guitar, but sheet music intimidated the hell out of me. Wanted to give the bass a try because I’ve always been curious, I’ve always gravitated towards the sound-always dial right into to the bass lines in songs… anyhow, the more I read helpful comments, the more I’m inspired to dig in. I know that it’s good for the brain to always keep learning, opens up all sorts of beautiful things. Mind, body and soul. Keep up the fantastic vid posts, from Q&A to your impressive demos~they’re all so helpful! 🎸🤘☮️
Julia, Always so glad to see you and your videos. You are a fantastic one in a million base player. It's great to hear your opinion on how and what to play on your own base. You are awesome!
when i practice sitting down, i put the bass on my left leg, so the position is pretty much the same as when standing up, at least for me (not too lady-like though :D). the only difference between sitting and standing for me is getting tired from the weight of the bass when standing for a long time, but with a good strap shouldnt be a problem
I have been playing bass since 1969. For beginners, I suggest sticking to one instrument, technique and style. When you are comfortable with that, then maybe move to other options. There are so many instruments and electronic devices these days that the player can be overwhelmed with choices. I know one fellow who owns twelve bass' and an array of pedals. On the other hand, one of my friends only plays the secondhand Epi Les Paul Special he purchased from a pawn shop twenty years ago and only plays with a pick. Awesome player. Having always played with two or three fingers, I switched to a pick after getting arthritis in my thumb and index fingers. different sound, but still lots of fun.
Great Q&A! A tip from an old guy who plays 4 and 5s to the last question: main difference is remember to change your anchor point more on a 5. If you are anchored on the neck, pickup etc. when playing the lower strings anchor on the B or E string when playing the higher strings. This will keep your hand in the same playing position when playing the higher and save you pain from it being stretched out, will sound better, and helps mute the lower strings. 🍍👍
Great advice, I play a 4 but have noticed that when I do pick up a 5. Lately I've been trying to explore Steve Harris' technique (I based my technique partly on his back in the 80s and learned it wrong like everyone else). In addition to his gallop, he floats his wrist. I was kind of amazed that the gallop helped me so much with stuff like ZZ Top (Dusty basically does a slow gallop most of the time), but that learning to float my right hand really helped me keep consistency in attack across strings. Right now I'm probably 50% anchored vs floating, and I used to be a hardcore anchored player (more like 90% anchored).
@@CashWiley Floating my hand was the best change I made and was easier than I thought it would be. I find planting my thumb gets in the way because I'll move along the strings within phrases to control the tone e.g. getting some high notes to ring out or to improve E-string clarity.
@@unclemick-synths So glad, I stumbled upon this. Was about to ask Julia! So I switched from a P-bass copy to a Sterling Stingray recently. I've always played finger style but I didn't realize how much I was using the built in thumb anchor on the p-bass until I started playing the stingray that doesn't have one. Did floating your wrist just get better with practice or is there a certain technique I should follow? I've found myself resting my thumb on the edge of the pickup which ruins the tone somewhat. I want to give the floating wrist thing a shot. Thanks in advance!
@@erichillmusic I found after a few weeks practice the side of my thumb (about level with the edge of my thumbnail) senses the position of my hand as well as providing muting for the strings when necessary. I definitely wouldn't go back to resting my thumb now. I find it also makes it easier to throw in occasional slaps and pops.
Hi Julia , I'm a bass player who wants to study Cello ( mainly for fun) . Ive been playing bass for a long time and in the last 5 years I've really been liking to play with a pick for the string attack and palm muting ECT . About the same time I've really started to like flatwound and have noticed that different flatwound sets have much more variation then roundsets.
Carmine Sarno - I'm a drummer that's teaching myself bass because it's the instrument i most focus on when i'm trying to lock in a groove. It was a natural progression for me since bass in my rhythm section partner in crime.
Julia I almost could be your dad but still feel as young as you lol!! I started bass in /2002 and since then "the chiken" is my gimmick/warming line...it was also one of my first favorite basslines and to me it's a great common point!! I'm always keen on difference in music but also similarities , in paths too, even with an age difference..music is such universal!! I spoke a lot with Ingrid Pastorius and she taught me a lot, about Jaco mainly but a lot about life too!
Hey Julia! Any chance of videos on Duck Dunn and David Hood? Dunn’s playing on “She Caught the Katy” is one of my all time favorite bass lines! Love your videos - keep it up!
To many people dismiss pick playing without trying it. Its another tool for another sound. It's not easier, it comes with it's own challenges. Muting can be more difficult. I play pick and fingers about 50/50 although with my Gibson Thunderbird it's always pick.
Hybrid strings make your instrument sing 🤘🏽. Even on guitar I mix up my packs and gauges cause it’s a very personal thing. Everyone wants a different feel and tension. ???How many string combinations did you go through to find the pairing that made you say “that’s perfect I’m using this from now on”???
HI Julia, I am entering my 5th decade of Electric Bass. Picks; I learn bass and guitar in the beginning and today I know I can play 15 BPM faster with my Fingers ( I rarely pick up a guitar) it's all about the sound. If your playing in unison with guitars (not keys) you can't have your fat little finger sound bleeding over and under the guitars. I have found a pick can make some songs sound fun. Straps; I could never play a bass setting or standing without a strap for very long. I make the strap length for standing, however the strap depends if your neck dives and your comfort on that bass. One might have to have sitting and standing length as long as the bass is in the same position on your body sitting or standing IMO.
Julia… super funny, I also wanted to play the drums at age 12 or 13 but my dad said “NO!.” I took up the guitar instead. Recently started playing the bass and love all your videos. Thanks for the inspiration.
As a guitarist who now also is a Bass player, I can confirm that playing Bass with a pick is much easier than fingers, coming from a guitar background. I've only been playing Bass for a couple months, but because all my fretting left hand fingering, speed/dexterity and my right hand picking technique directly transfers over, I am light years ahead as a Bass player and basically skipped being a beginner and went straight to an advanced intermediate Bass player. Hearing the level of difficulty of Bass lines I can play, you would think I had been playing Bass for at least 5-10 years, or longer. If you're good on guitar and have good ears, it's just a matter of learning the groove and feel of playing Bass and adjusting to to the wider frets. Once you get that down, you will accelerate insanely fast. It's really silly for any guitarist to not also play Bass as you have such an advantage. That being said, I try to split up my Bass playing 50/50 between picking and fingering and am working to get my finger playing up to speed and as solid as my pick playing. Finger playing is significantly more difficult than playing with a pick, but both are essential techniques IMO.
Pick, no pick, 1/2/3 finger, whatever. The song dictates. I like the snap of a pick when a song needs that, but I prefer the visceral feel of the strings under my fingers. I can get so much more nuance from my fingers, giving notes more treble and attack with a bit of nail, or just use the pads for a nice mellow sound. I barely use tone controls at all and just change up my right hand technique, makes things a lot simpler once you've spent a few decades learning all the different sounds you can pull, hah. I've always wanted to pick up the cello. I love classical music (I play classical guitar in addition to electric bass) and felt it would be a fairly natural transition. Some day I'll learn the Bach cello suites, but life only gives you so many years....
Hello Julia, loved this video. I wish it was longer because you are so damn interesting. What kind of preamp are you using ? I'm in the market for a new one, just curious. Awesome video, please do more Q&A down the road. Have a super great weekend !!!! Cheers from Canada 🤘🤘🤘🍻🍻
As a guitar player when I'm recording bass parts I'm using picks and I noticed how crazily different can be the sound when changing pick thickness, I can play a bit with fingers but I'm more comfortable with pick and actually I prefer the sound!
Funny, My dad said the same thing about the drums. I was always told to turn down my acoustic guitar...LoL I just started playing bass. I really like it. Thank you for your videos
the best italian rock bassist, Claudio "Gallo" Golinelli, comes from cello too. He was tired to wait to play his parts in complex orchestrations and so he picked up a bass guitar and rocked the world :)
Said her dad, "It's got four strings."......as if that's easier than six. I don't know how many mediocre bass players I've known who chose to play bass rather than guitar, thinking it would be easier......WRONG! Playing good, solid bass is WAY harder to do than a six-string guitar. Even if someone doesn't play at Julia's great level, playing simple, straight bass lines consistently is very difficult. I wish more bass "wannabees" would watch and study Julia's lessons and videos.....not just for technique, but for the most important skill of all, TASTE. Thanks Julia and Thomann.
@@adropofgoldensun27 You seem to know very few about bass musical theory. There are chords that we call chord tones, scales, modes, chords progression,... and even real 3 notes chords that you can play in the same time like in jazz standards. Bass can be simple but if you learn it the right way, it can be even more difficult than guitar
I think her dad figured that since the bass and cello had the same number of strings it would be somewhat familiar for her vs a six string instrument with let's be honest, nothing that would transfer over in regards to play style. It wasn't necessarily a dig at bass guitar. Julia herself said the transition was very easy so it looks like her dad was on the money. As for myself having played both for years, playing bass is not WAY harder than playing guitar. They both have their particular skill sets and difficulties, that need to be overcome if you want to be great at either one, but the learning curve is steeper on guitar IMO. I started playing bass because I wanted to be in a band and there were lots of openings for bass players, in my area because everybody, wanted to be the guitar hero. I picked up guitar a while back, and I love playing both.
@@liohrt I wasn't dissing bass players I know that skill levels vary dependent on your musical knowledge and experience. There are extraordinary bassists who are amazing. But as a fundamental player one can contribute musically to a band despite lack of Musical Scholastic ability. Experience sometimes is the best teacher.
Hey, thanks for your videos, really appreciate them! I‘d be super happy to hear an 'expert opinion' about one little question: when using alternating finger-picking technique, would you see any advantage in starting with a particular finger? (For example… always index on the downs and middle on the off-beats or the other way round or something totally different…) I guess there‘s always a portion of mere preference in questions like this but I feel like this is a decision that would be hard to revise after years of playing so, and maybe there are some advantages of one variant that I‘m just not seeing at the moment as a beginner :)
Julia I’ve enjoyed all of your videos you are truly gifted!! I have a song for you to play Bad Luck by Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes. I’m sure that you will enjoy playing that very busy bassline!!!
I started on 5-string bass, because the neck width felt more comfortable for me than the neck width of a 4-string bass. For the first 8 years or so, I only owned a 5-string bass. Now I only own 4-string basses, but only because I haven't saved up enough money to replace the 5-string I sold.
I've danced to the cello many times. Played it high, but the kids said I was old. Hate picks, but it's all personal preference and it depends on what kind of music you are playing. Got many basses, but I'm not fond of my 5 string.
Damn, I wish I had learned the cello. My parents forced me into learning the flute (Querflöte) for years as a child and teenager, while I learned secretly, how to play the guitar and when I heard a bass guitar properly for the first time... I was in love. But then life got in the way, work, studies, smaller apartment, relationships... bla bla bla... you know!? Now 20 years later.... I'm relearning the bass and my main issue is tempo and or groove while reading from a sheet. But I'm excited everyday to improve myself. Bought a Squier Affinity PJ bass first but since my collar bone is not great, it was really heavy and it hurt quite a bit. Now with the Harley Benton B-450 B-stock, and I'm super happy. I was worried it would be too damaged but besides some side effects from buying b-stock, like some slight damage to the fretboard, some scratches on the clearcoat of the body and the truss rod not being engaged, I'm super happy. It's light, with passive pickup and preamp... and far more fitting to my short size (1.66m). Had a blast setting it up with some new D'Addario strings, and contrary to the Squier, it stays in tune even if I put it in the gig bag and carry it around. Anyway, great upload once again. Hope you all have a great weekend.
Julia, you say electric bass guitar a couple of times. That's like calling a cello with with pickups an electric cello guitar. The double bass is not a guitar, and therefore the electric alternative is not a guitar, it is an electric bass. The original Gibson EB series (EB for Electric Bass) had an extendable end pin to be played upright like a double bass. Even my Fender Jazz Bass has "Electric Bass" on the head stock. That aside, you have a great series for learning electric bass.
Hi, I wish to know if you have played an acoustic Mexican Bass Guitar, and if you enjoy that kind of sound. Thanks for your videos and also for remind us that glorious bass lines of the groovy the times. Cheers from Argentina!
I play sludgy doom type of metal and since I use a 7 string guitar I decided to match it up with a 5 string. I'm not going to say it was a mistake but getting a good tone and note clarity down there is DIFFICULT. Whether I pick or play with fingers, I got used to getting close to the bridge for that string only and it helps but if you're not paying any attention to your technique on the low string you're gonna sound like mud. It's very hard.
To the last question, a bit of a disagreement. When starting cost is a factor. A 5 (or 6) string bass doesn't just cost 20% more, it's more like 50%. It's better IMO to get a better 4 string if you have the money to afford a 5. Also, when starting, getting your basic string control and tone down is hard enough with the fat E let alone the notoriously buzzy and flappy B. Get a good P/J hybrid and practice strength and tone in a variety of styles and make your 5 or 6 your #2
Since you got a very distinctive technique and you are very aware how you wanna sound or groove, plus we know your (quite tasteful) addictions, I'd be eager to hear your musical contributions. Are there any songs, records, bands that you are member of or upcoming projects? I apologize, in case you already gave hints in the past and I missed it.
What do you recommend as essential elements of a daily practice routine? (I try to mix up some rhythm exercises, scales/arpeggios, sight reading and a part of a new/old song.)
Hey Julia .. Good fun especially at the end .. I guess you also had to study some Piano ? for cello studies ? I would suggest that you treat yourself to a really good quality snare & Hi Hat & a Bass drum .. without any doubt the more you can relate to Drums ( & such fun ) the better your playing in ensemble will be . Plus why deny yourself ? Plus sometime you might need / want to explain / show the drummer what you want ..? or fill in while waiting for drummer to show up lol . I regret not getting a really good flute & saxophone 20 years ago & not starting to learn Key's until much later in life . & why not get Kris to make a nice guitar for you ? I regret being persuaded by people to stick to one instrument .. Even now altho I am not allowed to practice in the house .. I really have a lot of fun playing harmonicas .. Stay safe & If I may say you have a lovely smile .
Q&A for next tme. Hi Julia I am just deciding to get started on bass. I have been going back and forwards from wanting to get a entry level bass or save up a bit more money and get a Intermediate bass that may last longer? What do you suggest - just get started or take the time to get something that will last longer and potentially be easier to learn / play on>? Thanks so much in advance. :)
Hej Julia! Cool idea to mix strings of different sets. What do you do with the strings you don't need? And going on from that: Do you know of string recycling in Europe? D'Addario do it, but only on the US so far. Liebe Grüße and don't take too long to be back 🙃
There's nothing wrong with using picks
Can't wait to see Julia playing cello with one
Excellent suggestion 👍
Julia please tell your parents they did an amazing job raising you and giving you such good taste in music. I hope to be able to see you play live one day.
Tell them they raised a EPIC Bass Goddess! OMG! Slap Like NOW!
Five strings basses (at least mine ) is way heavier! Makes the four string a pure pleasure to stand with ! That’s it. Love your channel
I'm always happy when there's a new Julia's video 😻
I play mostly with my fingers. But I use a pick for certain things. Playing with a pick can be easier in a couple instances. 1) If you're playing metal or something that requires super fast picking. 2) If you're singing. Playing with a pick allows you to establish a consistent, fluid strumming motion that makes it easier to sing over. That's why you'll often see bass players who sing use a pick.
I would add that picking also has a sound and nuances that can't be replicated with fingers, and vice-versa. Both are essential techniques IMO to be a well roundes bass player. I'm going to experiment with a hard pick with a soft silicon coating that mimics the feel of fingers to see if I can get a pick to sound like playing with fingers......
Nateross14 you may want to try Felt picks bit of a softer attack,they take awhile to break in though.
And with that "I'll be back", the torch has been passed to Julia as the most prominent Austrian celebrity in the anglosphere.
Does that make #TheGuitarGeek the most prominent Anglo in the austrosphere?
I'd like to report the MLT as a possible contender for this honor: mostly guitar, a little bit of bass and cello, etc. and millions of views on some of their videos with covers and original music, e.g.: ruclips.net/video/7HLvbZQpPzU/видео.html - "Sunshine Superman - MonaLisa Twins (Donovan Cover) // Live at the Cavern Club".
Two best parts of this entire video for me, is at 1:23 ...when emotion floods over Julia as she says,,,,.."Then..the bass love started." Born bassist right there folks. The other is when she says she wanted to play music she could dance to----bass player right there too. It's all about the groove moving you.Thanks Julia!
Thanks for answering my question Julia. I went on a bought a Squier pj 4-string along with a small Rumble LT25 amp. Struggling a little bit with the setup of the bass, but I'll get there. Many thanks!
You are welcome! // Cheers, Julia
I also started on cello before moving to bass. I just ran into another player the other day who did the same. Seems like a natural evolution!
you're spot on about using a pick ...and also, I thought i'm the only doing it so i'm not sharing this even with my bandmates...about mixing strings!!!....I'm really ecstatic when you said it....I bought different brands of string, either, nickel plated and stainless steel roundwound...i do it to achieve a specific sound from each of the strings....based on a genre of music we're doing....you are cool!!
Thank you Julia, for your answer about standing/sitting while practicing...I was having some trouble with my back as well, and when I lowered my strap it seems to have helped! Your playing is fun to watch and listen too...your love for playing bass is so obvious, you have a wonderful smile. Thanks again.
Thanks for answering my question. As a guitar player I prefer using my fingers anyway, however I'm trying to use a pick more. For the bass I haven't tried using a pick, yet.
Thannnnnk you Julia & Thomann’s for these RUclips vids. Julia, you’re incredible. You’re lessening the intimidation factor w/every vid I watch of yours. As a kid I tried picking up the flute & five string guitar, but sheet music intimidated the hell out of me.
Wanted to give the bass a try because I’ve always been curious, I’ve always gravitated towards the sound-always dial right into to the bass lines in songs… anyhow, the more I read helpful comments, the more I’m inspired to dig in. I know that it’s good for the brain to always keep learning, opens up all sorts of beautiful things. Mind, body and soul. Keep up the fantastic vid posts, from Q&A to your impressive demos~they’re all so helpful! 🎸🤘☮️
Julia,
Always so glad to see you and your videos. You are a fantastic one in a million base player. It's great to hear your opinion on how and what to play on your own base. You are awesome!
when i practice sitting down, i put the bass on my left leg, so the position is pretty much the same as when standing up, at least for me (not too lady-like though :D). the only difference between sitting and standing for me is getting tired from the weight of the bass when standing for a long time, but with a good strap shouldnt be a problem
I have been playing bass since 1969. For beginners, I suggest sticking to one instrument, technique and style. When you are comfortable with that, then maybe move to other options.
There are so many instruments and electronic devices these days that the player can be overwhelmed with choices.
I know one fellow who owns twelve bass' and an array of pedals.
On the other hand, one of my friends only plays the secondhand Epi Les Paul Special he purchased from a pawn shop twenty years ago and only plays with a pick. Awesome player.
Having always played with two or three fingers, I switched to a pick after getting arthritis in my thumb and index fingers. different sound, but still lots of fun.
Haha, that last remark! 4 strings for ever ❤
For me, when it comes to a 4 string bass guitar, I’d put thicker gauge strings for lower tunings, because I love to go low.
I can listen to Julia all day
please tell us about the pineapple! this is killing me for month now;)
Yes please Julia!! It’s a fun retro item. My cousins had what I believe are the same pineapples back in the 70’s
@@Alaska_Engineer i got one myself! i think its for sweets...or plectrums;)
You have a great sense of rhythm! Please tell us how you developed your inner rhythmic pulsation.
You’re awesome Julia!!!!
Great Q&A! A tip from an old guy who plays 4 and 5s to the last question: main difference is remember to change your anchor point more on a 5. If you are anchored on the neck, pickup etc. when playing the lower strings anchor on the B or E string when playing the higher strings. This will keep your hand in the same playing position when playing the higher and save you pain from it being stretched out, will sound better, and helps mute the lower strings. 🍍👍
Great advice, I play a 4 but have noticed that when I do pick up a 5. Lately I've been trying to explore Steve Harris' technique (I based my technique partly on his back in the 80s and learned it wrong like everyone else). In addition to his gallop, he floats his wrist.
I was kind of amazed that the gallop helped me so much with stuff like ZZ Top (Dusty basically does a slow gallop most of the time), but that learning to float my right hand really helped me keep consistency in attack across strings. Right now I'm probably 50% anchored vs floating, and I used to be a hardcore anchored player (more like 90% anchored).
@@CashWiley Floating my hand was the best change I made and was easier than I thought it would be. I find planting my thumb gets in the way because I'll move along the strings within phrases to control the tone e.g. getting some high notes to ring out or to improve E-string clarity.
@@unclemick-synths So glad, I stumbled upon this. Was about to ask Julia! So I switched from a P-bass copy to a Sterling Stingray recently. I've always played finger style but I didn't realize how much I was using the built in thumb anchor on the p-bass until I started playing the stingray that doesn't have one. Did floating your wrist just get better with practice or is there a certain technique I should follow? I've found myself resting my thumb on the edge of the pickup which ruins the tone somewhat. I want to give the floating wrist thing a shot. Thanks in advance!
@@erichillmusic I found after a few weeks practice the side of my thumb (about level with the edge of my thumbnail) senses the position of my hand as well as providing muting for the strings when necessary. I definitely wouldn't go back to resting my thumb now. I find it also makes it easier to throw in occasional slaps and pops.
@@unclemick-synths Thanks! Giving it a shot!
Hi Julia , I'm a bass player who wants to study Cello ( mainly for fun) . Ive been playing bass for a long time and in the last 5 years I've really been liking to play with a pick for the string attack and palm muting ECT . About the same time I've really started to like flatwound and have noticed that different flatwound sets have much more variation then roundsets.
Many great bass players initially gravitated toward drums. Noticing a trend here...
Carmine Sarno - I'm a drummer that's teaching myself bass because it's the instrument i most focus on when i'm trying to lock in a groove. It was a natural progression for me since bass in my rhythm section partner in crime.
Bass is a rhythm instrument so it makes sense.
Julia I almost could be your dad but still feel as young as you lol!! I started bass in /2002 and since then "the chiken" is my gimmick/warming line...it was also one of my first favorite basslines and to me it's a great common point!! I'm always keen on difference in music but also similarities , in paths too, even with an age difference..music is such universal!! I spoke a lot with Ingrid Pastorius and she taught me a lot, about Jaco mainly but a lot about life too!
Hey Julia!
Any chance of videos on Duck Dunn and David Hood?
Dunn’s playing on “She Caught the Katy” is one of my all time favorite bass lines!
Love your videos - keep it up!
Hey, thank you for your suggestion! // Cheers, Julia
Dunn's a legend. She Caught The Katy bops hard.
To many people dismiss pick playing without trying it. Its another tool for another sound. It's not easier, it comes with it's own challenges. Muting can be more difficult. I play pick and fingers about 50/50 although with my Gibson Thunderbird it's always pick.
What is in your cup of tea ? What gauge leaf? Bagged or loose leaf ? ☕☮️👍
Hybrid strings make your instrument sing 🤘🏽. Even on guitar I mix up my packs and gauges cause it’s a very personal thing. Everyone wants a different feel and tension.
???How many string combinations did you go through to find the pairing that made you say “that’s perfect I’m using this from now on”???
I love the octave pedals.
HI Julia, I am entering my 5th decade of Electric Bass. Picks; I learn bass and guitar in the beginning and today I know I can play 15 BPM faster with my Fingers ( I rarely pick up a guitar) it's all about the sound. If your playing in unison with guitars (not keys) you can't have your fat little finger sound bleeding over and under the guitars. I have found a pick can make some songs sound fun. Straps; I could never play a bass setting or standing without a strap for very long. I make the strap length for standing, however the strap depends if your neck dives and your comfort on that bass. One might have to have sitting and standing length as long as the bass is in the same position on your body sitting or standing IMO.
Julia… super funny, I also wanted to play the drums at age 12 or 13 but my dad said “NO!.” I took up the guitar instead. Recently started playing the bass and love all your videos. Thanks for the inspiration.
As a guitarist who now also is a Bass player, I can confirm that playing Bass with a pick is much easier than fingers, coming from a guitar background. I've only been playing Bass for a couple months, but because all my fretting left hand fingering, speed/dexterity and my right hand picking technique directly transfers over, I am light years ahead as a Bass player and basically skipped being a beginner and went straight to an advanced intermediate Bass player. Hearing the level of difficulty of Bass lines I can play, you would think I had been playing Bass for at least 5-10 years, or longer. If you're good on guitar and have good ears, it's just a matter of learning the groove and feel of playing Bass and adjusting to to the wider frets. Once you get that down, you will accelerate insanely fast. It's really silly for any guitarist to not also play Bass as you have such an advantage. That being said, I try to split up my Bass playing 50/50 between picking and fingering and am working to get my finger playing up to speed and as solid as my pick playing. Finger playing is significantly more difficult than playing with a pick, but both are essential techniques IMO.
Pick, no pick, 1/2/3 finger, whatever. The song dictates. I like the snap of a pick when a song needs that, but I prefer the visceral feel of the strings under my fingers. I can get so much more nuance from my fingers, giving notes more treble and attack with a bit of nail, or just use the pads for a nice mellow sound. I barely use tone controls at all and just change up my right hand technique, makes things a lot simpler once you've spent a few decades learning all the different sounds you can pull, hah.
I've always wanted to pick up the cello. I love classical music (I play classical guitar in addition to electric bass) and felt it would be a fairly natural transition. Some day I'll learn the Bach cello suites, but life only gives you so many years....
Yup! For me, it's the same with pedals. Whatever the music needs.
Hello Julia, loved this video. I wish it was longer because you are so damn interesting. What kind of preamp are you using ? I'm in the market for a new one, just curious. Awesome video, please do more Q&A down the road. Have a super great weekend !!!! Cheers from Canada 🤘🤘🤘🍻🍻
McCartney said that's why he loves the Hofner , because its light. It really is. I bought one. My Fender is twice as heavy.
drop-tuning-machine on my 4-string helps a lot: the low Eb or D is fully sufficient & big fun!
Thanks, Julia. I laughed along with you to the "I'll be back".
Julia Friday! Thanks for the insights. 4 string for me, too! 🤘🤙👍
As a guitar player when I'm recording bass parts I'm using picks and I noticed how crazily different can be the sound when changing pick thickness, I can play a bit with fingers but I'm more comfortable with pick and actually I prefer the sound!
Funny, My dad said the same thing about the drums. I was always told to turn down my acoustic guitar...LoL I just started playing bass. I really like it. Thank you for your videos
the best italian rock bassist, Claudio "Gallo" Golinelli, comes from cello too. He was tired to wait to play his parts in complex orchestrations and so he picked up a bass guitar and rocked the world :)
Said her dad, "It's got four strings."......as if that's easier than six. I don't know how many mediocre bass players I've known who chose to play bass rather than guitar, thinking it would be easier......WRONG! Playing good, solid bass is WAY harder to do than a six-string guitar. Even if someone doesn't play at Julia's great level, playing simple, straight bass lines consistently is very difficult. I wish more bass "wannabees" would watch and study Julia's lessons and videos.....not just for technique, but for the most important skill of all, TASTE. Thanks Julia and Thomann.
I think bass is easier musically because you don't have to learn chord structure or modes.
@@adropofgoldensun27 You seem to know very few about bass musical theory. There are chords that we call chord tones, scales, modes, chords progression,... and even real 3 notes chords that you can play in the same time like in jazz standards. Bass can be simple but if you learn it the right way, it can be even more difficult than guitar
I think her dad figured that since the bass and cello had the same number of strings it would be somewhat familiar for her vs a six string instrument with let's be honest, nothing that would transfer over in regards to play style. It wasn't necessarily a dig at bass guitar. Julia herself said the transition was very easy so it looks like her dad was on the money.
As for myself having played both for years, playing bass is not WAY harder than playing guitar. They both have their particular skill sets and difficulties, that need to be overcome if you want to be great at either one, but the learning curve is steeper on guitar IMO. I started playing bass because I wanted to be in a band and there were lots of openings for bass players, in my area because everybody, wanted to be the guitar hero. I picked up guitar a while back, and I love playing both.
@@liohrt I wasn't dissing bass players I know that skill levels vary dependent on your musical knowledge and experience. There are extraordinary bassists who are amazing. But as a fundamental player one can contribute musically to a band despite lack of Musical
Scholastic ability. Experience sometimes is the best teacher.
@@liohrtExample of amazing bass: Ayumu m.ruclips.net/video/kwS9Wsvk3vk/видео.html
Interesting info about playing fretless bass with a pick. I use one occasionally to add colour, depending on the music of course.
Please interview Kinga and Joe Dart.
Hey, thanks for your videos, really appreciate them! I‘d be super happy to hear an 'expert opinion' about one little question: when using alternating finger-picking technique, would you see any advantage in starting with a particular finger? (For example… always index on the downs and middle on the off-beats or the other way round or something totally different…) I guess there‘s always a portion of mere preference in questions like this but I feel like this is a decision that would be hard to revise after years of playing so, and maybe there are some advantages of one variant that I‘m just not seeing at the moment as a beginner :)
Wow thanks for answering my query...you're sooo awesome!
Julia I’ve enjoyed all of your videos you are truly gifted!!
I have a song for you to play Bad Luck by Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes. I’m sure that you will enjoy playing that very busy bassline!!!
As always, good job Julia !!
👍🎸🥳
I started on 5-string bass, because the neck width felt more comfortable for me than the neck width of a 4-string bass. For the first 8 years or so, I only owned a 5-string bass. Now I only own 4-string basses, but only because I haven't saved up enough money to replace the 5-string I sold.
I've danced to the cello many times. Played it high, but the kids said I was old. Hate picks, but it's all personal preference and it depends on what kind of music you are playing. Got many basses, but I'm not fond of my 5 string.
Julia, I'd love a "Top 5" bass line video for Tiran Porter, Jack Casady, or Peter Cetera. Cheers, Jim Potts
Damn, I wish I had learned the cello. My parents forced me into learning the flute (Querflöte) for years as a child and teenager, while I learned secretly, how to play the guitar and when I heard a bass guitar properly for the first time... I was in love. But then life got in the way, work, studies, smaller apartment, relationships... bla bla bla... you know!?
Now 20 years later.... I'm relearning the bass and my main issue is tempo and or groove while reading from a sheet. But I'm excited everyday to improve myself. Bought a Squier Affinity PJ bass first but since my collar bone is not great, it was really heavy and it hurt quite a bit. Now with the Harley Benton B-450 B-stock, and I'm super happy. I was worried it would be too damaged but besides some side effects from buying b-stock, like some slight damage to the fretboard, some scratches on the clearcoat of the body and the truss rod not being engaged, I'm super happy. It's light, with passive pickup and preamp... and far more fitting to my short size (1.66m). Had a blast setting it up with some new D'Addario strings, and contrary to the Squier, it stays in tune even if I put it in the gig bag and carry it around. Anyway, great upload once again. Hope you all have a great weekend.
One of the top 10 famous bassists was also a former cellist. John "Jack" Symon Asher Bruce
Julia, great video! What is your opinion about passive and active pickups? Which ones do you prefer and use?
Julia, you say electric bass guitar a couple of times. That's like calling a cello with with pickups an electric cello guitar. The double bass is not a guitar, and therefore the electric alternative is not a guitar, it is an electric bass. The original Gibson EB series (EB for Electric Bass) had an extendable end pin to be played upright like a double bass.
Even my Fender Jazz Bass has "Electric Bass" on the head stock.
That aside, you have a great series for learning electric bass.
I really like these! Keep em comin
Shes adorable, very talented
Hi Julia, your videos are great!
Great video and i knew julia was a tea drinker....:) i also play with a pick but on the slow songs i will use the fingers
Hi, I wish to know if you have played an acoustic Mexican Bass Guitar, and if you enjoy that kind of sound.
Thanks for your videos and also for remind us that glorious bass lines of the groovy the times.
Cheers from Argentina!
Did you find playing a super light Bass worth it in terms of weight versus any tone trade off ?
Hello from your fans in Australia btw 🇦🇺
Do You like the Band Journey? also would You consider online lessons? I currently am Subcribed to SBL, with Scott Devine. Thanks, Paul
Have you considered featuring your favorite bass lines from TV theme shows?
Hi Julia, did you ever consider to have a trip on Chapman stick? Thank you for your videos.
I'll be your 4-string bass, Julia! :)
Julia, could you tell us what is your preamp?
I play sludgy doom type of metal and since I use a 7 string guitar I decided to match it up with a 5 string. I'm not going to say it was a mistake but getting a good tone and note clarity down there is DIFFICULT. Whether I pick or play with fingers, I got used to getting close to the bridge for that string only and it helps but if you're not paying any attention to your technique on the low string you're gonna sound like mud. It's very hard.
To the last question, a bit of a disagreement. When starting cost is a factor. A 5 (or 6) string bass doesn't just cost 20% more, it's more like 50%. It's better IMO to get a better 4 string if you have the money to afford a 5. Also, when starting, getting your basic string control and tone down is hard enough with the fat E let alone the notoriously buzzy and flappy B. Get a good P/J hybrid and practice strength and tone in a variety of styles and make your 5 or 6 your #2
Great video 🔥
Glad that you are a Tea drinker, best wishes from the best Tea producing nation, Sri Lanka. (We've got great Pineapples too :-) )
Since you got a very distinctive technique and you are very aware how you wanna sound or groove, plus we know your (quite tasteful) addictions, I'd be eager to hear your musical contributions. Are there any songs, records, bands that you are member of or upcoming projects? I apologize, in case you already gave hints in the past and I missed it.
Thank you ❤️❤️👍👍
Do you have any original music we can hear? With your great groove & feel I bet it would be awesome! The editing on these videos is great too!
What do you recommend as essential elements of a daily practice routine? (I try to mix up some rhythm exercises, scales/arpeggios, sight reading and a part of a new/old song.)
Use the metronome anytime you practice anything
Hi Julia! Just want to say you're so beautiful and I love your accent. Keep up the awesome bass playing. Cheers from the USA
Can you show us the first basslines you learnt?
Hy Julia!
Did you take any bass lessons with a teacher or did you learn by yourself?
Bass cleff I only know treble cleff since middle school band using alto sax
Hey Julia .. Good fun especially at the end .. I guess you also had to study some Piano ? for cello studies ? I would suggest that you treat yourself to a really good quality snare & Hi Hat & a Bass drum .. without any doubt the more you can relate to Drums ( & such fun ) the better your playing in ensemble will be . Plus why deny yourself ? Plus sometime you might need / want to explain / show the drummer what you want ..? or fill in while waiting for drummer to show up lol . I regret not getting a really good flute & saxophone 20 years ago & not starting to learn Key's until much later in life . & why not get Kris to make a nice guitar for you ? I regret being persuaded by people to stick to one instrument .. Even now altho I am not allowed to practice in the house .. I really have a lot of fun playing harmonicas .. Stay safe & If I may say you have a lovely smile .
I love playing bass guitars with fingers better than a pick.
Q&A for next tme. Hi Julia I am just deciding to get started on bass. I have been going back and forwards from wanting to get a entry level bass or save up a bit more money and get a Intermediate bass that may last longer? What do you suggest - just get started or take the time to get something that will last longer and potentially be easier to learn / play on>? Thanks so much in advance. :)
Its your own choice,but I suggest a starter pack to every beginner
Cliff Burton played a 4 string!
Julia is a EPIC Bass Goddess! OMG! Slap Like NOW!
Hej Julia!
Cool idea to mix strings of different sets. What do you do with the strings you don't need?
And going on from that: Do you know of string recycling in Europe? D'Addario do it, but only on the US so far.
Liebe Grüße and don't take too long to be back 🙃
Jaco was the king!!!
From Skip Lackey: 9.8.23 Where can I see Julia between now and march 2024?
What your pre amp?
As a 6-string Guitar player I can tell that the 5-string Bass can be something confusing. I prefer the 4-string too.
Played electric acoustic guitar piano
Hey Julia, have you tried playing bass in cello (5ths) tuning?
Maybe you should do Bernard Edwards bassline. He's so groovy👌
well now I'm jealous because your heart belong to that 4 string bass XD
Enjoyed your information, what is your opinion on nylon strings. Just started on bass.
do you still play cello, and do you now play double bass
The new Terminator!! :)
I hope you can play "IF I EVER LOSE THIS HEAVEN" Please, Please, Please..
Thank you...This will be very very good for you..Im Rey G..from Florida U.S.
do you play also electric guitar
Sting played fretless with a pick on most Police records