BASS FITNESS 1.2

Bass Fitness

Based on the best selling book "Bass Fitness" published by Hal Leonard in 1991, Bass Fitness has established itself as a reputable regimen for bass warm-up exercises. It has garnered endorsements from distinguished music institutions and notable bass players worldwide.

The exercises included are tailored for bass guitarists aiming to enhance speed, dexterity, accuracy, and finger independence. While primarily focusing on the left hand, these exercises concurrently engage the right hand by requiring swift and precise movements.

To benefit fully from the program, it is recommended to practice daily, dedicating at least 15 minutes to each exercise before advancing to the next. Exercises are to be played both ascending and descending, progressing chromatically in half steps from the 1st to the 12th fret and back down. The use of a metronome is essential, with exercises played in 8th notes (2 notes per metronome click). Attention to detail when crossing strings is emphasized by monitoring both left and right hand movements.

Each exercise is accompanied by a Transport panel. This panel enables users to listen to and record themselves playing the exercise. A red icon indicates a user recording, with the option for playback. A loop feature allows for continuous play, while a metronome function aids in maintaining tempo.

The exercises can be displayed in bass guitar tablature notation and bass clef standard music notation for comprehensive understanding. A user-friendly Table of Contents facilitates easy navigation throughout the material, providing a visual indicator of completed exercises through color-coded markings.

The tempo slider section allows users to adjust playback speed by controlling beats per minute (BPM), while a mixer button grants volume control over bass guitar and metronome levels.

About the Author

Josquin Des Pres is a highly acclaimed figure in the realm of electric bass instruction, with Bass Fitness setting a high standard for warm-up routines over two decades ago. His expertise has garnered recognition from prestigious music institutions and revered bass players globally.

Josquin's illustrious music career spanning more than four decades showcases collaborations with industry giants. Renowned as a bass player, author, producer, and composer, he has earned widespread respect within the profession.

Besides his music prowess, Josquin is an accomplished songwriter and producer, having worked on numerous projects with legendary lyricist Bernie Taupin. His composition work extends to crafting music for various television networks.