On module 13th now. My biggest worry starting out at 69 years old was the “theory” part of the training. Especially after the wild 70’s and partaking in to much of the “wild weed” at that time in life.
Much to my surprise –I am actually picking up the knowledge or theory side of things— but am struggling in the actual “playing” side of things. I get frustrated sometimes in the medium, and full speed lessons. The full speed comes at you so fast, my playing just goes to crap. Jus sayin
But the lessons are still fun and I enjoy them a lot! Just have to play for the fun of it and forget the rest.
It’s been said and repeated many times: just slow down. Strive to play cleanly. Realize over time that a bass line is nothing to fear when you play it slowly and cleanly. Once you’ve got that down, speed it up a tiny bit, not so fast that it kills your clean technique. Just know you’ll have to practice to get any speed increases under your control. Lastly, be patient. Practice works given patience and time.
In summary, sneak up slowly on the thing. Speed comes in time, with mindful repetition.
Gee golly, this understanding extends to all things!
I feel the anxiety, too. I put the course down for a few months while feeling like the theory stuff wasn’t sticking. After coming back, things are sticking better, and I can still play as well (mostly) as I was before.
Trust the course as everyone advises. I added a few drills to reaffirm notes on the frets, working through scales which helped me feel like I was going the right direction.
Lately, I like picking the bass up almost every time I walk by it, working through whatever licks I’m practicing for 2 minutes, and moving on. It’s fun and keeps me engaged.
I am older also 64. I went through the course once. somethings stuck some didn’t.
You own your course go over it again and again as much as you want. I have alot of fun with mine. I am on my 2nd go around with it. some easy some hard. too me it’s all fun.
