Choosing a stringed instrument is both fun and surprisingly challenging. It’s even harder to decide whether it is better to learn bass or guitar first. Naturally, it depends on what you want to play more, and you should always consider your long-term goals. However, all things being equal, one option is unquestionably easier at first. Especially those who are new to any instrument should pace themselves. Some parts of the playing skills, like reading music and finger work, will translate to both regardless. However, the guitar is undoubtedly more complex. Hence, I recommend beginning with the more straightforward instrument to learn and working your way up from there. Bass is a lot of fun and very rewarding. Plus, it helps to get started with something that will show your progress faster because it helps keep you motivated. I’ll explain some of the significant differences so you can make an informed choice.
Is it better to learn bass or guitar first? It’s better for new players to learn the bass first. Although some skills translate well, like using your pick or fingering, the bass is a more straightforward instrument to learn. A faster start can lead to more satisfaction for new players. Moreover, many long-time players feel the bass is a lot more fun.
How is Bass Different From Guitar
When You’re just taking a casual look, a bass may look a lot like a guitar. Whether you decide to play the bass first or the guitar, there are some significant differences to consider. For one thing, a bass is typically easier to learn.
However, that doesn’t mean there’s no challenge in learning to play bass. Since it is an octave lower, the music will have a much deeper tone. Usually, that means the bass is a backup instrument, with the guitar taking the lead role. Hence it’s a little easier to learn the chords.
With those outstanding low notes, you will bring the whole sound together. Although people don’t always acknowledge it, the bass is the beating heart of a band, and without it, a lot of songs would sound pitchy and almost whiny. Chalk it up to a lack of musical theory, and let the guitar player enjoy the spotlight if you choose the bass. Experienced musicians know the value of a bass.
A more resonant sound comes with larger strings. For new learners, this means you will probably get more calluses sooner. Good hand care is essential to anyone playing an instrument, but more so for large stringed instruments like the bass.
A longer neck on the bass also means more hand movement and stretching. This feature is part of the challenge and fun of playing bass. Still, it’s worth it. Once you start to understand how music is played, there’s a lot of freedom in bass playing. You can improvise and even add another string or two to your instrument for better range.
Another subtle difference is the size of the instrument. Basses are almost always larger than guitars. That means stretching further for your notes, but it also helps convey those beautiful deep tones.
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Can You Play Bass if You Play Guitar
In deciding whether to learn bass or guitar first, a lot of musicians make the same mistake. Never assume that knowing how to play one instrument, like the guitar, means you will automatically play another instrument. Although the bass and guitar are similar, they are not the same.
Those with a guitar background often find it easier to pick up a bass, but they won’t be playing like a pro the first day. It does make things easier, but this is because of the similarities. Additionally, playing any instrument will help you learn another. From scales and chord progressions to music theory and timing, some concepts translate universally.
Some people argue that you can play the bass if you already play guitar. However, this is only going to give you a basic idea of how the rhythms work. Sure, an experienced guitarist can knock out a few riffs on the bass, but if they want to play regularly, there’s a lot to learn.
Naturally, there will be exceptions. Musical prodigies and people who play multiple instruments may take to the bass like a fish to water. However, for most, there will be a significant adjustment period as you re-learn playing on a larger instrument as a backup rhythm musician.
A guitar has two more strings than most basses, and the change can make it feel easier at first, but don’t get ahead of yourself. Guitarists are used to stealing the show and being in the spotlight. For many, merely adjusting to the idea of letting someone else carry the central part of the song is hard to cope with. Take your time, and try to lock in on the drums instead of the words. It will help.
Is Bass Easier Than Guitar
In many ways, playing the bass versus the guitar is like playing the piano versus the guitar. It’s better to learn the bass first because it is easier to begin. Working with fewer strings and more rhythmic repetitive playing is faster at first.
However, learning your first few songs is not the same as becoming a bass player. Likewise, playing is not the same as mastering your craft. Like a piano, the bass has a learning curve that gets steeper as you gain skill.
From a performance standpoint, beginning and intermediate basslines are almost always less complicated. As the counterpoint to the guitar, the bass is going to repeat notes much more often. Moreover, finger plucking is easier to learn than strumming.
Although you will find the larger size of the bass is more physically demanding, the larger spaces between strings and larger frets will ultimately help. You may have to work harder for your notes, but they are easier to play once you get your finger in position. You’re less likely to hit the next string by accident.
Finally, you may not need the same level of music theory or chords to do well. Playing bass in the background gives you more freedom, and your structured basslines don’t need as much practice. Of course, this only applies to beginners and some intermediate players. Once you get enough experience, you’ll need to expand your musical knowledge in many ways to progress.
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Is Bass or Guitar More Fun
Fun is a matter of personal taste. When you’re trying to decide whether it’s better to play guitar or bass first, your personality matters; if you need the spotlight, then I hope you can sing as well, because you should get a guitar and lead the band. However, if you want to be a part of something larger, share the stage and have a lot more freedom, the bass is your instrument.
Despite their differences and similarities, both the bass and the guitar are a ton of fun to play. When you first start, I recommend the bass because it can be a lot easier and more rewarding to play. That said, it’s all about the connection to your music.
Some guitar players say they have more fun on the bass, and some bassists wish they’d learned guitar sooner. Still, you are going to love playing an instrument no matter where you begin your journey. Always choose what’s right for you, but if you can’t decide… get a bass.
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Final Thoughts
BASS vs. GUITAR | Andriy Vasylenko – YouTube
Choosing the right instrument to start playing doesn’t need to be a headache. If you genuinely want one over the other, choose that instrument. Likewise, you can always practice two instruments as you learn. However, I suggest starting easy with a bass.
Keep in mind that the bass may be simpler to start, but that doesn’t mean that professionals are less skilled. A good, experienced bassist is peerless with their instrument and can play some awesome tunes. Having a deeper tone doesn’t make this a lesser instrument.
Playing the electric bass is a ton of fun. Once you get started, you won’t want to put it down, even when your fingers ache.