Well, it’s happening!  I wasn’t sure if I would like playing the bass, or would even be able to learn it, which is why I started out with a cheap one from Amazon.  Well’ after a very short time, the verdict is in. Yes, I love playing this instrument and am capable of learning it.  So, I bought a new bass, a better one.

It’s a cherry red Yamaha BB235 5-String.  It came with a white pick guard, which I don’t feel looks right with the red bass, so I ordered a black one from Yamaha. Before switching pick guards, Sara made a vinyl applique of my trademark rose and applied it.

Why did I buy a 5 string instead of another 4 string? Because deep down inside I know I will eventually shift from the 4 string to the 5 string, so why not just learn on it right from the start. I became fascinated with the 5 string last July 4th when I attended an event at the American Legion at which a 3-piece local band was playing. The band features a very talented female bass player who plays the 5 string.  As I have done throughout the years, I focused on the bass player, watching her dainty hands as one skillfully navigated the neck, while the other danced about and plucked the strings. I told myself, if I ever learn to play bass, I want to play a 5 string like her.

I did a great deal of research on the 5 string prior to ordering it on June 29th. It’s a big step and a significant change from the 4 string.  It’s heavier, and in addition to the extra string, the neck is wider. As for the learning curve, I don’t see it as much different from learning on a 4 string,  I have the option of simply playing it like a 4 string, with the option of using the B string whenever I choose.

I’ll be talking more about the 5 string in future posts.