Level 1 · The basics · 12 min
A bass note under the tune
By the end, you can keep a bass note ringing under three treble notes.
Before this lesson
Lesson steps
1 Listen to the bass
Play open A on the first click of each bar.
3 min · Quarter note = 48, 1 note per click
Check for · The bass rings for all four clicks.
More detail
The bass is the lowest part here. Pluck string 5 with the thumb, then let it vibrate freely.
2 The tune on its own
Play the three treble notes after the silent first beat.
3 min · Quarter note = 48, 1 note per click
Check for · You hear E-F-E on beats 2, 3 and 4.
More detail
The melody is the line you can sing. Only F needs your left index finger on the string.
3 Put the parts together
Play A with your thumb before the three melody notes.
3 min · Quarter note = 48, 1 note per click
Check for · You can still hear A under F on the third beat.
More detail
The thumb leaves string 5 after the stroke. If the bass stops early, check where your thumb has come to rest.
4 Bring out the tune
Bring out the melody on three runs.
3 min · Quarter note = 48, 1 note per click
Revisit the tablature · Step 3
Check for · You can hum E-F-E over the bass without losing the beat.
More detail
A light thumb stroke is enough. The treble notes should sound connected even as their pitch changes.
You can move on when…
You pass when the bass remains audible through the three melody notes on three successive runs.
If a movement feels difficult
The bass stops on beat two.
Keep the thumb clear of the bass string after plucking it.
F lands after the click.
Move the left index close to its fret during the preceding E.