How to Play C on A String: Bass Guitar Basics

Video Transcript

So when playing the A string on our bass, the second one from the top, you have open A. With our second finger, we play B, keeping it arched. Now, our third finger can play the third fret, which is the next letter up in the alphabet after B: C. A, B, C. C, B, A. So, try alternating those: A, B, C, C, B, A, and alternating fingers. A, B, C, 1, 2, 1. 1, 2, 1, 1, 2, 1. So what about that first fret, what would be there? Well, remember, if you recall from the E string, we talked about that, that one note above a natural note, is a sharp note of that same note. So A sharp would be this note, or one step below a natural note, B flat. Now there's nothing between B and C. And there's nothing between E and F. When we learn about Step Theory, we'll get to that. We'll understand why that is. But the important thing is if anyone asks you what this first fret is say "Oh that's B flat or A sharp." Though we might not use that for melodies immediately.

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