What is a good beginning bass guitar for blues/jazz?

I am a trained musician who is interested in picking up the bass guitar. I am interested in playing blues and jazz. What is a good beginning bass to learn on and to play in those styles? I am a trained musician (I hold a bachelors degree in music performance) on trumpet, but have always been interested in learning to play bass. I'm not looking to break the bank, but would like something that eventually would be appropriate for basic jams sessions. Any suggestions?

Fender P Bass

the classic is the fender percision bass but check out samash online i bought a real pretty epiphone guitar there call their guitar repair or customer serice and ask about deals and set ups

The Fender Precision Bass or Fender Jazz Bass are always a good decision but can cost well over $1000. A Peavey Millenium Bass is also a excellent choice. I play one myself. They look better (due to the quilted maple tops) they play better (due to the patented tapered neck) and sound just as good ( due to active pick-ups and mahogany bodies). And at around $300 from <musiciansfriend.com> you won't be disappointed.

If your a trained musician.. then I think you can handle a 5 string bass. I used to have a Fender Jazz. It belonged to the former bassist for Ray Charles. I'm actually looking for a bass for our son.. You can get a decent one for around 600.00. A beginners bass for around a few hundred. You'll also need an amp and that's where the cost comes.. I'm a jazz/funk guitarist who's also played blues..but I tell my sons.. play bass and you can play your way through school.

Try the Guitar Center, Musicians Friend(Online). or any large music store that carries a large variety of instruments.

You remind me of "me," a number of years ago. Truly, we have a lot in common.

I too was a was a formally trained trumpet player, having begun playing in late elementary school and continuing throughout H.S. and, later, college. Like yourself, I too attained a B.A. in music -although- applied music was secondary for me as my degree was actually in composition & theory.

I too had a "yen" to play bass when I was a teen. At that time (the very early 60's,) one could not hope to join a 4-5 "combo" as a trumpet player as Bb Tenor Sax was "the" only horn anyone would consider.

Most of the answers you've received so far are "spot on" with my preferred instrument..........the Fender Jazz/Precision Bass. Despite dozens of brands that didn't even exist when I purchased my "baby" in 1963, Fender, particularly within the blues genre, is still formidable.

Note that the primary difference between the Jazz and so-called P-Bass are the pickup configurations, and the neck width at the nut.....i.e. the Jazz having a bit more flexibilty regarding tone + a slightly smaller neck width to deal with.

As one respondent mentioned, you should take a good long look at 5-String basses - particularly if you're just beginning. The "low B" on a 5-String, in addition, to a wider variety of finger positioning possiblities, and an overall greater range make it a an excellent choice. Note that the availability of a low Eb and D alone make it worth serious consideration.

There's a lot to be said about a fretless bass as well. Definately a steeper learning curve and particulalry more difficult when playing in the upper range -or- when using double-stops.........the sound and "gliss" capability, particulary in the blues/jazz arena make all of that effort worthwhile.

Note that if you use eBay as a potential purchasing venue, be very careful. If your looking for a "deal" look at new "Mexican" Fenders. If and when you feel the need for an upgrade you can always turn to an American-made Fender later.

The very best of luck to you -and- don't hesitate to email me if you wish..........after 40+ years of playing bass......I'd be happy to share information with you.

The very best of luck,

G.B.

If you're looking for a decent bass that won't break the bank, look into a Squier Affinity Precision or Jazz bass. They can be had for less than $200 and they're decent for the money. If you want to go better quality, a Fender P or J can be had for less than $500

A fender jazz should be more than appropriate for the sound your'e looking for