10 Best Online Bass Guitar Lessons That Actually Work

Looking for the best online bass guitar lessons?

You’re in the right place.

In today’s digital world, it’s never been easier to learn bass from home.

But with so many options, which one is right for you?

My article narrows down your choices, presenting top-notch platforms and ensuring your path to bass proficiency is smooth and enjoyable.

So, keep reading as I’m going to be reviewing the best online bass guitar lessons and courses.

So, in a nutshell, what are the best online bass guitar lessons? The best online bass guitar lessons include JamPlay, which offers a wide range of courses from various instructors, covering different styles and techniques. ArtistWorks provides personalized instruction from professional bassists and includes a video exchange feature for targeted feedback. TrueFire offers a massive library of lessons catering to all skill levels and musical genres, complete with interactive tabs and practice sessions.

Disclosure: We are a professional review website that may receive compensation for the products we review. All recommendations are genuine and/or verified by myself!

Best Online Bass Lessons Ranked

Here is a quick list of the best online bass lessons based on my hands-on analysis:

1. JamPlay – Overall best online bass guitar lessons for beginners
2. ArtistWorks
3. TrueFire
4. Fender Play Bass
5. StudyBass
6. Scott’s Bass Lessons
7. BassBuzz
8. Udemy
9. Yousician
10. Musika

I’ve also made a video on the top online bass lessons and courses, for those that prefer watching a video:

10 Best Online Bass Guitar Lessons Reviews

People who learn online can retain 25% to 60% more information¹.

This is just one of the benefits of learning the bass guitar online.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing 25+ different online bass courses, apps, and software, using the following key criteria to rank them: price, course curriculum, quality of instructors, lesson structure, and more.

Using my experience in this field, I’ve compiled a list of the best online bass lessons available, comparing the above criteria to help you make an informed decision and take your bass playing to the next level.

1. JamPlay – Overall best online bass guitar lessons for beginners

The overall winner on my list of the best online bass lessons and what I recommend to beginners is JamPlay.

Running since 2006, JamPlay is one of the most popular online platforms for learning guitar and bass.

The content is very well-organized and comprehensive, and the bass lessons are searchable by skill level, style, songs, and artists.

The levels of skill are dubbed ‘phases’ on the JamPlay site. Beginners logically start at phase 1 and progress. In the phase 1 area, you will find around 200 lessons from 10 different skilled instructors.

You can access the JamPlay website on any mobile phone, tablet, or PC.

Features and Benefits

JamPlay teaches how to play the bass through video lessons. They are filmed in a professional studio with high-quality production. You can search all lessons by skill level, style, songs, and artists.

What’s great about JamPlay is its impressive team of instructors. From musicians from bands like Megadeth to world-class educators, you’ll get the chance to learn from the best.

The lessons are separated into 4 different phases.

If you’re a beginner, you should start with Phase 1. With over 200 lessons, this section will teach you basics such as posture, tuning, technique, and playing bass lines. 

Phase 2 consists of advanced and genre-specific lessons covering genres like blues bass, pop and rock, and funk bass. You’ll also learn an array of different concepts, practical skills, and physical playing skills such as Modes, Scale, and Slap Bass.

The phase 3 section is focused on songs. It offers around 50 lessons where the piece is broken down into chunks and played at slower tempos until you are ready for the original speed.

In this phase, teachers take requests and aim to teach you how to play your favorite songs on the bass.

After you’ve finished with all the phases, you’ll have the Artist Series section where you can learn how to play different styles of famous bassists. You’ll be taught by various JamPlay instructors in a more informal atmosphere.

In the Artist Series section, you’ll get many useful technical tips, but you’ll also hear about creativity, being a bass player in the music business, songwriting, etc.

JamPlay truly provides a well-rounded music curriculum that will easily teach you how to play bass by yourself.

With features such as interactive tabs and notation, you’ll get multiple benefits – you can play in slow motion, print or save learning material, and loop any section of the video.

What Sets JamPlay Apart From Other Platforms?

JamPlay offers a variety of lessons on different topics and techniques. This popular platform will provide you with a well-rounded online education that not many other websites can offer.

Who is JamPlay for?

I personally recommend JamPlay online bass lessons for beginners and intermediate players.

With lessons divided into different categories, players of any level will benefit from them.

Moreover, the program is well organized and based on step-by-step learning, so anyone in need of structured online education will find this website quite efficient.

2. ArtistWorks

ArtistWorks is another premium subscription option that offers personalized online bass guitar lessons.

It’s based on video lessons that will teach you various techniques and genres.

You can choose between a three-month, six-month, or one-year course.

Features and Benefits

With an ArtistWorks subscription, you’ll gain access to video lessons, bass guitar tabs, and backing tracks.

Your main instructor will be Nathan East, a talented and accomplished bassist who has played alongside Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and many more.

The curriculum is divided into Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Bass lessons.

One of the great benefits of ArtistWorks is the chance to send your recorded practice sessions and receive personalized feedback from the bass instructor. This way you can get valuable suggestions for what you need to work on.

On top of that, you’ll have access to the Video Exchange library and watch each other’s interactions with Nathan.

Along with the music theory workshop available in all ArtistWorks packages, you’ll get an in-depth course covering both the practical and theoretical parts of bass playing.

What Sets ArtistWorks Apart From Other Platforms?

ArtistWorks will give you a chance to learn from real music legends. Although you won’t learn from them in real-time, you will feel like they made those video lessons just for you.

When it comes to Nathan East’s course, he will share valuable playing tips and tricks, and learning from someone like him is a unique opportunity.

Who is ArtistWorks for?

ArtistWorks online lessons are suitable for all ages and levels of experience.

I’d recommend the platform for players with some experience since it offers the possibility of getting direct feedback from a teacher.

That’s a great way of asking specific questions or getting to know your weak spots.

To find out more about the platform, read my full ArtistWorks review.

3. TrueFire

TrueFire is one of the oldest running platforms out there.

It offers a variety of video lessons and an option to have private online bass lessons.

There is a 25% discount for new students purchasing their first lesson and you can focus on specific areas of teaching during the course.

Features and Benefits

TrueFire offers a wide array of pre-recorded courses, live video lessons, and discussion threads. The lessons are bite-sized and easy to process.

The production value is simple and straight to the point. This, coupled with the direct teaching styles of the instructors, makes TrueFire a good option for learning bass guitar.

Apart from the beginner course, there are many specific technical courses including exercises and workouts. You can choose from a variety of styles like funk, acoustic, and jazz blues.

Learning Paths also offers lessons within different music genres.

Advanced lessons get challenging, which is great for experienced players.

Another benefit of TrueFire is the option to get private lessons. You can choose your instructor and interact using learning tools and iOS apps for video messaging, lesson plans, jam tracks, etc.

What Sets TrueFire Apart From Other Platforms?

TrueFire will give you a chance to have one-on-one bass lessons. And that’s a perfect chance to get valuable feedback, work on your weaknesses, and improve your overall musicality.

Also, unlike many other learning platforms, TrueFire has lessons for advanced players.

Who is TrueFire for?

Due to a large number of specialized lessons, more experienced players who know exactly what to look for will probably benefit the most.

However, there’s an option to get a private tutor, which is great for players of all levels of experience.

4. Fender Play Bass

Although a relatively new resource for online guitar lessons, Fender Play has branched out into bass lessons and has quickly become popular.

Fender Play will teach you core bass guitar skills and songs from popular artists.

It’s available for iPhone, iPad, Android devices, and desktops.

Features and Benefits

Fender Play Bass delivers its content through bite-sized, high-quality video lessons. Most video lessons are relatively short and to the point.

There are informative instructional videos, riff-based videos, practice exercises, and a song library. Most of the content is inspired by specific bassists emulating their playing styles and techniques.

In each video, you will learn a technique, and then apply it to a song. There are five levels and hundreds of videos including lessons on reading and counting rhythm, slap bass, arpeggios, and so on.

The program covers a wide range of genres and artists such as James Brown, Curtis Mayfield, Maroon 5, and Bob Marley.

One of the platform’s benefits is the ability to track your progress – there’s a dashboard with several completed lessons and songs.

What Sets Fender Play Bass Apart From Other Platforms?

The Fender Play Bass course has a great teaching method. You’ll learn the technique and then apply it. That way, you’ll be able to memorize (and feel) what you learned in your lesson.

Who is Fender Play Bass for?

Fender Play Bass is great for beginners. With causal, to-the-point lessons, the program teaches basic bass skills and popular songs.

The course is also suitable for anyone who prefers shorter lessons.

Check out my full Fender Play review to get a better idea of how the platform works.

5. StudyBass

StudyBass offers free online bass lessons that will teach you how to play bass in the comfort of your home.

Step-by-step lessons are created and guided by Andrew Pouska, a skilled bass player and teacher.

Features and Benefits

StudyBass learning course will guide you from the very beginning. It’s divided into three curriculums featuring study blocks and lessons. Therefore, your learning process will be clear and linear.

Although videos are basic regarding the dynamic and filming, they will teach you certain fundamental concepts in-depth. You’ll also get a lot of Andrews’s insight and suggestions.

Moreover, there are plenty of useful learning tools on the website such as fretboard diagrams, bass clef notes, music paper, and an online metronome.

What Sets StudyBass Apart From Other Platforms?

StudyBass offers a paid subscription, but you can use most of StudyBass’ resources for free. And it’s hard to find a free learning website that is so helpful, well-structured, and comprehensive.

Who is StudyBass for?

StudyBass is an ideal learning tool for newcomers. The content gradually moves to more advanced concepts, but generally teaches all the fundamentals.

The program is also great for anyone on a budget since it’s completely free and easily accessible.

6. Scott’s Bass Lessons

Scott’s Bass Lessons is another comprehensive platform for learning bass guitar online.

Created by the musician Scott Devine, the program consists of guided lessons, a huge course library, and many useful features.

Features and Benefits

The SBL website is well-designed and lessons are easy to navigate. You can choose between Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Courses.

So, you can learn basics like scales and chords, as well as more complex stuff such as phrasing and improvisation techniques.

Besides Scott, you’ll learn from other skilled bass players, each with their teaching style and approach.

You will earn badges for each level as you complete the system.

You can also choose different learning pathways: Blues, Walking Bass, Soul R&B, and Sight Reading.

One of the greatest advantages of this online music course is live weekly workshops. These online seminars will allow you to learn from great instructors in real-time.

This is indeed a socially led learning platform meaning you can get direct feedback and learn from your fellow students.

What Sets Scott’s Bass Lessons Apart From Other Platforms?

If you take Scott’s Bass Lessons, you will feel productive and involved.

Besides live lessons, you’ll have a chance to become a part of the online community. In a way, it will be like going to a virtual music school.

Who are Scott’s Bass Lessons for?

Whether you’re just starting or you’re a skilled player, you’ll find something for yourself in this online course.

With live lessons, a strong community, and a structured curriculum, it’s a great tool for learning how to play bass at home.

7. BassBuzz

BassBuzz is a website offering plenty of thorough lessons focused on teaching core bass guitar skills and practical theory.

There are some free courses available, but you’ll have to subscribe to have access to the whole curriculum.

Features and Benefits

Guided by the friendly and talented Josh Fossgreen, video lessons are clear and dynamic.

You will learn various songs and how to read tablature as you go, with the help of a play-along method with jam tracks. There is also an emphasis on rhythm training.

Lessons cover a wide range of genres: rock, pop, blues, soul, funk, metal, disco, gospel, jazz, prog, and country.

When you complete the Beginner to Badass course, you’ll have a solid musical foundation and bass guitar skills.

If you want to move forward, you can take masterclasses with advanced content. Josh presents many tips and tricks, and there are lots of featured articles written covering numerous related topics.

Also, the platform’s forum is quite active and provides extra resources, feedback, and discussion.

What Sets BassBuzz Lessons Apart From Other Platforms?

Unlike many other platforms, BassBuzz covers a wide range of genres. So, if there’s a specific music genre you want to focus on, BassBuzz probably has it covered.

Who is BassBuzz for?

If you’re searching for reliable and easy-going online bass classes, BassBuzz is for you. Regardless of your age and skills, you’ll find this course effective and beneficial.

8. Udemy

Udemy is an online learning platform that covers a wide range of courses including bass guitar lectures.

You can browse through around 50 different courses.

Features and Benefits

There is a wide range of instructors with individual lesson plans. You can find something as basic as tuning your guitar and how to hold it or something rather complex and theoretical.

Since it’s an open platform, some courses are better structured than others. But if you find the right instructor for you, you’ll be able to progress quickly.

The tutors are graded with a 5-star system so you get a good idea of previous and current students’ opinions on the content and value for money. The lessons are also backed by a money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied.

Each course includes a different amount of videos and learning resources. For example, if you purchase The Professional Bass Masterclass, you’ll get full lifetime access to almost 10 hours of video content, 13 articles, and 17 downloadable resources.

This course allows you to learn bass guitar techniques from a professional bassist. It also teaches how to improvise, write bass lines, and perform confidently on a stage.

What Sets Udemy Apart From Other Platforms?

Udemy is a unique platform because it offers specialized lessons and bass guitar courses focused on a specific skill, technique, or style.

Who is Udemy for?

Udemy online lessons are for anyone willing to do a little research to find the right course. It’s necessary if you want to find suitable lessons and a quality teacher.

So, although it might seem like it’s easy to get lost on the website, once you find what you’re looking for, it will be an easy and effective learning process.

9. Yousician

Yousician is a popular and very interesting source of online music lessons.

Taking Yousician lessons feels like playing a game.

So, if you like game-like learning apps, you should check out what Yousician has to offer.

Features and Benefits

Yousician is suitable for all levels of experience.

And it’s very easy to follow. You’ll be completing levels, earning points, and improving your bass-playing skills.

Your phone microphone will pick up what you’re playing and the app will analyze your pitch and rhythm and provide you with instant feedback.

This instant feedback feature is really helpful. But you need to be fond of gamified programs to enjoy them.

Nevertheless, you’ll learn chords, triads, plucking, fretting, picking, and much more. And you’ll play familiar songs along the way.

Lesson plans are created by bass players and music teachers, and you will surely learn a lot without feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

The videos are interactive and intuitive, and you can slow them down, repeat parts, and so on.

All in all, Yousician will help you enhance your music skills in a very fun and engaging way.

What Sets Yousician Apart From Other Platforms?

Unlike many other platforms, Yousician will provide you with instant feedback. It’s not the same as getting feedback from a teacher, but you’ll know if you’re doing something wrong and be able to improve your pitch and rhythm.

Who is Yousician Best For?

Yousician is great for players who like game-like apps.

The app is very simple, effective, and well-designed. And it will undoubtedly teach you useful playing techniques.

10. Musika Online Bass Lessons

Musika is a popular website that offers virtual one-on-one bass guitar lessons.

Musika can connect you with a qualified music teacher according to your level, goals, and interests.

Features and Benefits

On the Musika website, there’s a wide variety of music teachers to choose from.

Don’t worry – Musika will make a perfect match for you. Therefore, you’ll have to answer a couple of questions first.

But if you’re not satisfied with your teacher, you will not be charged and Musika can match you with a new teacher. You’ll simply have another trial lesson on Skype.

And even if you register, there’s no long-term contract. And that’s a huge advantage for people who are still not sure if they want to commit to bass guitar lessons.

Furthermore, lessons are well-structured, and you’ll learn linearly and effectively.

After all, you’ll have personal guidance from a professional teacher, and that will undoubtedly put you on the right track.

Your online tutor will adjust to your learning style and provide you with valuable feedback and suggestions.

What Sets Musika Bass Lessons Apart From Other Platforms?

Musika is a unique platform because it will provide you with private virtual lessons that suit you.

You can find a teacher that fits your learning style and goals, but if for some reason your trial lesson doesn’t go well, you can find another tutor.

Who is Musika Best For?

Musika is a great choice for anyone looking for private online bass guitar lessons.

It’s suitable for all levels and ideal for players who want to have personal guidance.

Factors to Consider When Deciding Which Online Bass Guitar Program is Right For You

If you’re not sure how to choose the best online bass guitar program for you, let’s take a look at some of the factors that can affect your decision.

Lesson quality

Lesson quality is one of the most important things about bass guitar lessons. If the platform delivers content through video lessons, make sure they’re recorded with good quality and perhaps feature on-screen notation, multiple angles, split-screen, and so on.

Lessons should also be guided by experienced teachers who are professional but friendly and, even more importantly, easy to understand.

And if you’re using an app to learn bass guitar, it would be great to have an instant feedback feature. That way, you can learn the correct notes and rhythm more easily.

Learning structure, methods & curriculum

When looking for online bass guitar lessons, you should find a course that fits your learning style and goals. Some courses are more flexible, and others provide linear lessons.

Also, some online courses are designed to teach you how to play bass guitar very quickly, and others take a slower, more thorough approach. They also cover different topics and styles.

However, the best bass guitar programs often include all the important lessons suitable for all levels. For example, JamPlay has a very clear structure and it’s divided into phases.

Phase 1 is aimed at beginners, and other Phases include genre-specific lessons, song tutorials, and more advanced content.

Results

To check if the learning platform you choose yields good results, you can read users’ reviews. You should, however, be careful because people have different expectations.

Either way, if you like the program’s curriculum and methods, and if you practice regularly, you should be able to see the results rather quickly.

Platforms

Different bass guitar programs are available on different platforms. Of course, you should opt for a program that fits your learning habits.

If you want to take lessons while you’re traveling, it would be convenient to find something portable like an app or program available on iPads.

Courses like JamPlay are available on all devices including mobile phones, tablets, and computers, which makes them very convenient and accessible.

Songs and styles

A good online music program should have an extensive song library. That way, you can expand your repertoire but also choose songs that you personally like.

JamPlay is a bass guitar program that covers different music genres and a variety of songs.

Platforms like ArtistWorks provide genre-specific courses, so you can take an Electric Bass course, a Jazz Bass course, and so on.

Price

Compared to lessons with a private teacher, online courses and apps are quite affordable.

Some of them also offer free content or tutorials on their YouTube channel.

There are many budget-friendly options out there. But even if a program is a bit more expensive, it probably offers more content, features, or an impressive roster of teachers.

Either way, it’s good to take advantage of the program’s free trial period and test it out before purchasing anything.

Skill level

You should also find a program that fits your level. If you want to make progress, make sure that the course also features more advanced content. Most online courses and apps are suitable for beginners, though.

JamPlay, for example, offers bass guitar lessons for beginners as well as more experienced learners.  

Extra features

Learning tools, options, and features are also important. Besides regular lessons, it’s good to have other learning resources or online tools at your disposal. That will make your learning process easier and more effective.

When it comes to additional options, JamPlay offers useful tools, ArtistWorks provides a personalized feedback option, and Truefire offers one-to-one lessons.

How To Choose The Best Bass Lessons Online?

Before choosing an online bass learning course, you need to decide what your goals are.

Some programs mostly teach easy bass songs and others provide detailed theory lessons.

Another thing to think about is the platform’s features. Check if they’re offering benefits that you would find useful, such as live sessions, direct feedback, or additional learning resources.

Everyone has their own best way of learning, so you must find something suitable for you.

Instructors are also an essential part, and you should take some time to do a little background research.

But remember – although it’s great to learn from a famous musician, that’s not a guarantee that you will like someone’s teaching style. A good music teacher has the experience but is also able to pass the knowledge in a comprehensible and engaging way.

Furthermore, free trials are a great way of testing the platform before subscribing. Check if the platform you like offers a trial run or free YouTube videos.

What Are The Benefits Of Online Bass Lessons?

As the number of online music lessons grows, it’s clear that this type of learning has many benefits.

First of all, online bass guitar lessons are usually less pricey than traditional music schools and private instructors.

Although having a teacher by your side is precious, online platforms offer something the traditional way of learning doesn’t².

For example, you can choose your courses and lessons. Websites offer a wide range of genres and specific techniques for all levels of learning. You don’t have to follow a strict schedule – choose a song or a style and just start practicing.

Moreover, with online bass courses, you can learn from famous bassists. They will help you improve your bass skills and share their valuable knowledge and advice.

The freedom to learn at your own pace and choose the type of content you want to learn is undeniably a great way to stay motivated and keep practicing until you reach your goals.

How I Test Online Bass Lessons

MidderMusic produces honest and accurate reviews based on personal experience and research. The review process is fully editorially independent. I am either supplied with the free subscription by the platforms or purchase my own subscriptions.

When evaluating a bass guitar platform, I take into account the following factors:

• Simplicity in setup and use – How easy is it to sign up and install the program? Is it user-friendly? Is the content easy to navigate?
• Quality of content/tutors – Are the lessons easy to follow? What is the quality of the video? Are teachers easy to understand? Do they give clear instructions? Do they communicate information in a friendly manner?
• Range of content – What areas or skills is the platform focused on? Does it contain lessons for advanced players? If it’s only suitable for beginners, does it have enough material and songs/tutorials?
• Useful features – Can you use the program on multiple devices? Is there a possibility to get feedback on your playing? Is the service flexible or customizable? Are there features such as the ability to slow down or loop video?

I approach every platform with these same four categories in mind.

Final Thoughts

While exploring online bass learning platforms, I discovered there are many efficient and interesting courses worth checking out.

What works best for you depends on your priorities – but whether you want to learn a few songs for fun or get advanced bass skills, you’ll find something for yourself.

However, I highly recommend JamPlay as my overall top pick.

There are many benefits of online bass lessons, and one of them is the freedom to find lessons that fit your learning style. Find something suitable for you and start learning.

Of course, if you want to make progress with your bass playing, you need to maintain a regular practice routine. With enough persistence and quality exercise, one day you’ll be ready to rock that stage!

FAQs

Sources:

1. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1105922.pdf ↩︎
2. https://www.rasmussen.edu/student-experience/college-life/pros-and-cons-online-classes/ ↩︎