Tomas “Tom” Velken studied history and geology at Franklin and Marshall College between 1982 and 1984. He graduated with a bachelor of arts from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1986. In 1995, Tom Velken founded and owned Viking Real Estate Group in Lafayette, California, a company involved in acquisition, development, and finance for both commercial and residential properties. He enjoys deep-sea fishing, ethical boar hunting, and playing the bass guitar during his free time.
Mastering the bass guitar is a journey that's not just about playing notes but about harnessing various essential techniques that make your playing stand out. Whether you're a novice or an experienced player looking to refine your skills, these techniques will elevate your bass game.
Timing is the heartbeat of music, and as a bassist, it's crucial to be in sync with the rhythm. Practice with a metronome to refine your timing and groove, ensuring that you're locked in with a drummer. Gradually, you'll develop an innate sense of rhythm.
Familiarize yourself with major and minor scales. These foundational scales will enhance your understanding of the instrument and its capabilities. Incorporate scales into your practice routine to expand your musical vocabulary.
Delve into learning existing songs. It cements your finger technique and exposes you to diverse musical patterns. Furthermore, train your ears to replicate melodies and understand the nuances of bass lines. This will improve your ability to play by ear.
Learn to mute strings for precision and control. Palm-muting or using your fingers to dampen strings adds depth to your playing by shaping and sustaining notes.
Finally, collaborating with fellow musicians is a fantastic learning experience. It pushes you to adapt, respond, and harmonize, boosting your ensemble playing skills.
