We are truly inspired by the passion and development of our students here at eBassGuitar.
Today, we are excited to share the journey of Chuck Lazer, a musician who found new depths in his bass playing through Bass Lab PLUS and our Hear It Play It program.
"The boost in confidence has been huge. I now believe I can listen to a song, figure it out, and play it well."
Watch Chuck's interview with James Eager
Here's the summary of the interview...
Hey Chuck, can you tell us a bit about your background as a bass guitar player?
I started playing bass guitar because I always wanted to. In the 70s and 80s, I played guitar, but mostly by rote. When I retired, I decided to learn bass because I loved the sound and wanted to understand music better. The bass strips music down to its essentials: chord structure and rhythm. I've loved learning about all of that.
So what motivated you to join the Hear It Play It program?
I wanted to get off the page and internalize the music more. This program seemed like a great way to do that.
What were your initial expectations for the program?
That I would be able to hear songs and figure them out.
Can you describe some of the biggest wins or breakthroughs you've had through the Hear It Play It course?
There have been several wins. The course covers the basics, technical stuff, and how to figure out key, major or minor, and intervals. The biggest discovery for me has been learning to differentiate between close intervals. Also, the boost in confidence has been huge. I now believe I can listen to a song and figure it out.
What specific skills or techniques have you improved the most throughout the program?
Hearing intervals and figuring out solos. I play a lot of jazz, and now I can sit down and figure out what a solo should sound like. I can work up and down the whole fretboard.
Are there any particular songs or bass lines you're especially proud of mastering?
Many songs, especially Motown and Steely Dan. I realized I have a passion for modal music.
"The biggest discovery for me has been learning to differentiate between close intervals. It's something I never truly understood before."
How has the Hear It Play It program changed your approach to learning and playing the bass?
I listen better. I'm more aware of what’s going on and can figure out music by ear.
In what ways has your musical ear developed as a result of the program?
My ear has become more attuned. I can listen to a piece of music and figure it out.
Can you share your experience working with your one-to-one coach, Sian? How did she help you progress during the program?
Sian is amazing. She constantly tells us we can do it and believes in us. That encouragement is crucial. She also helped me incorporate diminished scales into my playing, which has been great for soloing.
What did you enjoy most about the weekly group coaching sessions and the course materials?
While everyone goes in their own direction, it’s great to see where people are and support each other.
How would you describe your experience with the support and guidance from myself and the eBassGuitar team?
You have the best support team. Whenever I have questions, I get quick and helpful responses. They stick with it until it’s resolved.
Would you recommend the Hear It Play It program to other bass players? Why or why not?
Definitely. When you’re ready to get off the page and gain freedom in your playing, this program is essential.
Is there anything else you'd like to share about your experience with the Hear It Play It program?
The program is always there to revisit. Once you go through it, you can always go back and learn more.
Do you have any advice for students who are about to start the Hear It Play It program?
Believe that you can do it. You’re probably a better player than you think. When playing in a group, remember you’re often as good as the others.
Need More Help?
Do you want to experience rapid results just like Chuck Lazer?
If so, check out the Hear It Play It program, where I show beginner to intermediate bass players how to master playing by ear!
Join us starting on September 9th. Click here to learn more and sign up today.
Good luck!
James