The Improvisor's Bass Method - by Chuck Sher

Sher Music calls this the most comprehensive bass method book ever published. A lofty claim, indeed - but it is very deep, with lots of great exercises that are designed for the bass student (or self-learner) to build upon. It even features a "how to use this book" section at the beginning - as less advanced players may benefit from a different approach to the lessons and exercises, as opposed to a more accomplished player. Thoughtful!

What it is, is a complete method book, with over 200 pages, filled with information and exercises on all aspects of bass playing, for both acoustic and electric bass.

Plus transcribed bass lines and solos by:

• Eddie Gomez
• Ron Carter
• David Friesen
• Charles Mingus
• James Jamerson
• Ray Brown
• Paul Jackson
• Scott LaFaro
• Marcus Miller
• George Mraz
• Jaco Pastorius
• Paul Chambers
• Alphonso Johnson
• Jimmy Garrison

... and more!

Spiral-bound - which means it stays open on your music stand(!), 218 pages.

Endorsements

What makes the book outstanding is how it covers both the basics and the more creative aspects of bass playing. Recommended for electric or upright bass players at all levels of musicianship.”
— Jazz Educators Journal

Chuck Sher has put together a book that is informative, readily comprehensible, and highly imaginative. I recommend it for any bassist interested in expanding his awareness in the art of improvising.”
— Eddie Gomez, bassist with Bill Evans, Chick Corea, and many others

...a very comprehensive study of both the acoustic and electric basses. You are welcome to my endorsement.”
— Bob Magnusson, bassist with Joe Farrell, Sarah Vaughan, instructor at the Bass Institute of Technology

The book is great and Chuck Sher is to be congratulated. It is very thorough and gives a great deal of knowledge about both instruments. This is really an excellent theory book and a reference book too.”
— Rufus Reid, author of "The Evolving Bassist"

Undoubtedly the finest book of its kind available today... Sher's book demonstrates a profound understanding of the nature of improvisation... Recommended for any and all bassists, classical, jazz or rock. Teachers of improvisation will find it the only reliable and comprehensive text available.”
— International Society of Bassists Newsletter

Chuck Sher has sincerely made an honest and musical effort to bring to bass players a complete book on how to approach the bass violin as a creative instrument... used not as a means to an end, it may become a very valuable source of information to the serious bass player.”
— David Friesen, Inner City Records recording artist

When I was just starting out and got "The Improvisor's Bass Method" it really gave me a jump start on the whole idea of what it means to be a jazz bass player, and the transcriptions opened me up to all the great bassists waiting for me to discover. Thanks!”
— Larry Grenadier, bassist with Brad Mehldau, Fly