Bass Around the World #28: Fifty Shades of Arpeggios

Quick music theory lesson. Arpeggios are basically notes within the chord. For example, the G major chord consists of three notes - root note G, major third B and fifth D. More complex chords are just adding more notes (G maj7 adding F#, G maj9 adding F# + A and so on).

Lesson time

Our focus today will be major arpeggios, particularly with a basic three-note major arpeggio. So, a C major arpeggio will be C-E-G, A major consists of A-C#-E, etc.

We will learn how to play at least three different fingerings and positions on the neck. Start with a basic one-octave box, i.e. a C major arpeggio, with the C played an octave higher, is easily played on the third fret of the A string or the eighth fret of the E string. Of course, aim for all twelve keys or as many positions as you’re capable of.

The second variation is played on all four strings, starting with our C major arpeggio. You’ll always need to start on the E string as you’ll be playing all notes within box logic like this: C & E on 8th and 12, G on the 10th fret on the A string, C an octave higher on the 10th fret on the D string, and finally E & G an octave higher on the G string.

The third variation is playing a major arpeggio over two octaves. In this case, I’ll save words and send you straight to the video below, as I explain and show you a super-efficient and consistent fingering system for major arpeggios within two octaves.