Stix Posted July 15, 2021 Share Posted July 15, 2021 Hi All, I have only just started to learn bass(6 weeks ago), I am 70 years young and the have arthritis in both hands,which is why i gave up on six string guitar as my fingers cant make the chords also due to a bike accident my left wrist has limited movement. I am very pleased at what i can play so far but find that i have to improvise a lot and cannot get a lot of shapes required, I dont want to play in a band, just maybe jam with mates who both play guitars. Do you think i should push on or give up. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cheddatom Posted July 15, 2021 Share Posted July 15, 2021 push on if it doesn't hurt. I have problems with my left wrist. I can't play a normal bass any more, I have to play short scale. I find a more upright position for the neck helps. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Reggaebass Posted July 15, 2021 Share Posted July 15, 2021 Welcome Steve 👍 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hellzero Posted July 15, 2021 Share Posted July 15, 2021 Push on Steve ! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
police squad Posted July 15, 2021 Share Posted July 15, 2021 Indeed, push on Steve and welcome Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SpondonBassed Posted July 15, 2021 Share Posted July 15, 2021 (edited) Welcome Steve. A lot of us play just for our own pleasure with maybe the odd open mic night or gathering of friends. If you like it, why not? Just beware of the GAS. Edited July 15, 2021 by SpondonBassed Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
martthebass Posted July 15, 2021 Share Posted July 15, 2021 Welcome Steve, push on with it mate. If you find the shapes a bit trying due to your arthritis have a think about a shortscale 30" bass like a Mustang. I play both 34" and 30" but I'll admit that the 30" is getting more fun as my hands get older. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stix Posted July 15, 2021 Author Share Posted July 15, 2021 Many thanks to all for your words of encouragement, advice and welcome. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TheGreek Posted July 16, 2021 Share Posted July 16, 2021 If you enjoy playing why give up? Sounds like you're not planning on 100 days tours so while you can, play. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Trueno Posted July 16, 2021 Share Posted July 16, 2021 I’m still playing with my bony, arthriticky claws (complete with creeping numbness)… in fact… the band seem to think I’m pretty good. I’ve moved on to short scale basses, which definitely help. I’d also recommend getting some flat wound strings… not because they make it any easier… they just sound awesome. Keep playing and best of luck. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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