BASS SCALES

Bass scales are generally more used for lead runs and soloing rather than rhythm per se. Their structure and fingering on the fretboard is different due to how they are played. Scales are when a series of notes usually five or more are played individually on the same string and adjacent strings. Seven notes make up the core major scale. However, there are many scales, modes and a variety of scale applications that are necessary to really be able to play anything more than simple accompaniment.

Specific intervals between notes define the makeup of various bass scales. While sometimes two scale notes are played at the same time for effect, this is not a chord, it is called an interval. Scales are generally played with a pick, along with legato, tapping, or even fingers using for example the slap pop technique.

Bass scales come in many names and alterations, so there is much to be understood in regards to using and applying them. As one of the key building blocks of bass and music, scales are one of the three blocks that includes bass chords and bass arpeggios.

Many times bass players don't get taught the level of bass scales and lead improvisational development that guitar players get taught. This is so common and a real detriment for the aspiring bass player who would like to play like the artists they aspire to. The bass player should be as proficient and knowledgeable in the playing and understanding of bass scales as a good guitar player would be.