I just bought a bass, any tips?

[greenpeace]

I can't give bass specific advice, but I can give general advice. For example, you should learn exactly where you fit in the band in each song. It's pretty annoying if the bass drowns out everything else when it's suppose to be just providing support, or if it is so quite that the song lacks support. Also, the same notes can be played very differently. A composer can't actually notate the exact way to play a song (which is why a computer program will most likely always be inferior to humans in playing a song), so the players have to decide the subtle nuances for themselves. For an extreme example, a player in an orchestra would play fortissimo much more quietly than an ultra-heavy metal fetus beating band guitarist would.
Basically, be aware of how others are playing and decide what each song calls for.

edit: Also, try not to break a G-string while fingering a minor.

 

[Mr. Dictator]

actually, an orchestra player's fortissimo would be struck a lot harder due to the lack of distortion

metal guitarists dont actually hit very hard.

 

[greenpeace]

actually, an orchestra player's fortissimo would be struck a lot harder due to the lack of distortion

metal guitarists dont actually hit very hard.

Well yeah, I guess it depends on how you define "loud." It would be kind of funny if there was no amplification. One guys walks forward and does a mad guitar teeth solo, but all you here is the drums . I wonder if you could hear the singer.

 

[Veritass]

Obligatory bass player joke:

Q. How many bass players does it take to change a light bulb?
A. 1....5....1....5....1

 

[m4gill4]

My goal isn't to become a grand master.

Hey, you say that now but why count it out? Aim high, friend! If you're going to put in the effort to learn it, why not go all the way and do it right?

Also, in regards to picks, yes they do have a distinct sound which is pleasant and useful in some situations. However, picking is easy and does not require much practice. If you practice and train yourself to use fingers and develop calluses, you will have the ability to use both techniques. Versatility is very useful in a musician.

Q. How many bass players does it take to change a light bulb?
A. 1....5....1....5....1