It’s Never Too Late to Learn the Bass Guitar: An Inspired Journey at 20

At 20, you're not too late to pick up the bass guitar. Many are surprised to learn that 24 is still considered young for guitar learning. Starting at any age, whether it’s "too late" or "early," comes down to your mindset and dedication. This article explores the benefits of learning bass at 20 and why you are not too late to embark on this musical journey.

Is It Really Too Late to Learn at 20?

Entering the adult world, you might feel that the window for learning instruments has closed. However, at 20, you are still a "youngster" in the eyes of many. The legendary musicians Starkey and Harrison remind us that learning an instrument is not easy. The passage mentions that the failure rate for would-be guitarists is over 90%, with the main reasons being the difficulty and the lack of patience and determination.

Key Skills: According to many experienced musicians, it’s more about attitude than aptitude. Patience and determination are crucial, as is enjoying the process. Rarely do experienced players claim they were “naturally gifted.” Most musicians attribute their success to consistent practice and a positive mindset.

Why Starting Early Doesn’t Mean You Have an Advantage

It’s often said that starting early is an advantage. However, the benefits of starting younger include insufficient physical strength and fewer life experiences. While younger learners might have more time to practice every day, older learners can make up for this with more focused practice sessions. Moreover, older learners have better self-discipline and a clearer understanding of their goals.

Benefits of Learning at 20:

Previous Experience: If you know some guitar basics, you have a head start. Skills like finger positioning and rhythm transfer well to the bass. Easier Learning Curve: Many aspects of bass playing are similar to guitar. This makes the learning process smoother if you already have some foundational knowledge. Practice and Patience: Set realistic goals and enjoy the learning process. Consistent practice is key to mastering the bass guitar. Community and Resources: There are plenty of online tutorials and courses for beginners, as well as music communities where you can find support. Enjoyment: The most crucial part is to have fun. Enjoy playing music, and the process will be more rewarding.

Why This is the Right Time to Start

Deciding to start learning music now is the right moment. Knowing that the universe aligns events and circumstances precisely, it’s clear that this is the perfect time for you to embark on your musical journey.

Psychological and Physical Benefits:

Able to Absorb Knowledge: Being at the end of teenage can help you understand and apply knowledge more effectively. Mechanical Abilities: You can now perform mechanical feats, such as finger and chord positions, more accurately. Self-Reflection: You can observe your practice and refine your technique as your mind occasionally gets distracted. Insight from Artists: You can learn from artists around the world and gain inspiration for creating music. Energy and Focused Practice: With more energy and focus, you can practice for longer periods, leading to better results. Building a Foundation: This is an excellent time to learn singing, which will lay a great foundation for your adult voice, which might set in in your late 20s or early 30s.

Conclusion

So, go ahead and enjoy your journey with the bass guitar. Learning an instrument is a rewarding and fulfilling experience, and you are not too late to start. Keep learning and growing, and you will unlock your full potential as a musician.