There are many who still confuse the six-string guitar with its lower-register cousin—the bass guitar, which typically comes in four-, five-, or six-string versions. But for those familiar with both, the differences in role and function are significant. The bass guitar forms the bridge between rhythm and harmony, laying the foundation that guitars often follow with chords, melodies, and solos.
There’s a common misconception that one must first learn the standard guitar before “graduating” to bass. I’m not quite sure where that idea originated, and I’m even less convinced that it holds true. While it’s likely that more people gravitate toward the mid-range tones of the guitar than the deeper, more resonant voice of the bass, I suspect this is more a matter of personal inclination than musical necessity—much like the natural tendency for most people to be right-handed.
I’m not going to suggest that bass is easier to play than guitar, but I will say that bass players often find it easier to integrate into bands and ensembles earlier in their learning journey. The role of the bass is more foundational—typically focusing on single-note lines and rhythmic consistency—so many players experience a quicker path to musical contribution and satisfaction. That sense of “instant gratification” can be incredibly motivating for a beginner.
If you’re considering starting with bass guitar instead of standard guitar, I say go for it. There’s no rule that says guitar must come first. In fact, one could argue the opposite. A four-string bass is tuned identically to the lowest four strings of a guitar (E, A, D, G), but an octave lower. The fretboard layout is the same, and the skills you develop on bass—like finding root notes and locking in with rhythm—can be directly applied to learning guitar later.
Moreover, understanding bass lines and how they interact with chords provides a strong musical foundation. In guitar playing, many students struggle with rhythm and bass movement early on—something bass players naturally learn from day one.
Another practical consideration: bass players are always in demand. In most group settings, there are two to four guitarists for every bass player. Rarely do bands require multiple bass instruments, which means opportunities for bassists can be plentiful. It’s not uncommon for a bass player to get regular gigs while guitarists wait on the sidelines.
Personally, I started on guitar—and now I’m writing blog posts. The bass players I know? They’re out playing gigs right now.
Whether your passion lies with the guitar or the bass, the most important thing is to start. Choose the instrument that inspires you, and build your skills from there.
Henry Bahrou
Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director
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