I'd like to ask a few questions

[RhoadBlock]

Hi, I'm new to bassplayer.com but I have been playing the bass for about 4 years. I have to write a paper for my Composition class at my university and I have to use a couple interviews. My topic is about a virtual community and I chose bassplayer.com. If anyone would be willing to help I would really appreciate it.

 

I can post the interview questions and anyone can respond to them there or i can send them to your email address if you would be willing. My email is lrhoads06@yahoo.com if you would like to contact me.

 

Thanks to all who help.

[Steve Force]

Why not just post the Q's here?

[RhoadBlock]

I was planning on posting them here as well. I should have all the questions up in the next few hours.

[kenfxj]

Just post them here. You'll probably get more answers than you need.

[RhoadBlock]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

Thank you to all who respond.

 

[Brocko777]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

Being associated with the magazines I frequently read I felt it was a great place to get answers and learn. Finding people that I could ask questions and learn from. (Which has been extreme for both)

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

Well I can continually scan the forum for back topics of practically any nature. Getz' humor.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

Haven't met any as of yet, but know somwhat of their personalities. How many? Well, I know of them 10-15 of the regular posters. By reading their posts!

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

I have been an active player/student for 15 years. I play some guitar and keyboards and a little drums. Mostly for personal entertainment.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

I really enjoy playing progressive rock BUT have learned to appriciate ALL types of music. My collection of music is stretched across the gamut (and it probably doesn't even touch half of what the rest of the guys here have in theirs)...even *shudder* country. Any particular reason?? How about my guitar player shoves the bloody country stuff down my throat!?!? heh... phew okay

[yourlord]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

Thank you to all who respond.

 

 

1. It was there. I found it while surfing one day and after reading a few threads I decided to jump in.

 

2. talkbass.com's forums and Ken Smith's bass forums.

 

3. Simply put, the people. This group of people tends to be much more serious, while still being passionate about bass. The discourse on this forum is in general more relevant and mature than what you would find elsewhere. I go to talkbass to laugh and look at pictures. I go here to learn.

 

4. While I don't know any members personally, I know them well enough to probably guess their answers to these questions

 

5. I've been playing bass since January of '92, so 15 years. I dabbled in drums and keyboards in my teens, but since picking up a bass I have coveted no other. I am a bassist.

 

6. My preference is 80's to 90's Heavy/Thrash/Speed Metal. I also listen to progressive rock, classic rock, and to a lesser degree funk, soul, and jazz. My styles are largely heavy metal inspired, but I'm working to incorporate other, more thoughtful, styles into my own. As for a reason, why does anyone listen to their favorite music. It connects with me.

[Flemtone]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

I registered first with bassplayer.com because it was the first discussion group I found that focused on bass. Since that point, I've found many more, but the MusicPlayer forums will always be 'home' to me. I first found BP.com thru Bob Gollihur's Upright Bass Resources site. He pointed me in this direction and I've been here ever since.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

Yes I am. TalkBass, The Dudepit and Harmony Central are among the other groups I subscribe to and visit regularly.

 

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

Two factors - the Moderators and the other members. Moderation is non-intrusive, but the Mods also are contributors. There's a mutual respect between all the members and the Mods, and that means a lot. The other members are, to a one, all people that I'm either proud to have met personally or would be proud to meet at any time. Again, mutual respect.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I've only met 8 or 9 members personally, but I feel I know a lot about almost all of them, from the aspect of having had similar experiences to many (most?) of them. It's surprising how similar we all seem to be, from the grizzled old vets to the up-and-coming Rising Stars of Tomorrow (they know who they are, and so do we).

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

I've been playing bass since 1973. Bass is my primary instrument and takes the bulk of my (extremely limited) practice time, but I also play guitar (acoustic primarily, but electric to a degree), piano (and similar keyboards), drums (and similar percussion instruments, both stick and hand), ukulele (extremely limited), tin flute and spoons. Oh, and I sing also, both lead and harmony.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

I losten to a wide variety of music, including Orchestral, Big Band, Popular Standards (Sinatra, Bennett, Lee, etc), Funk, Rock, Soul, Reggae, Folk, Country, Bluegrass, 'Old-Timey', Disco (gasp!), Progressive, Jazz and Experimental. I don't find myself relating to Rap/Hip-hop, Death Metal, Slash, Techno or Emo, however. I have no idea why not.

 

 

Thanks for asking!

 

[getz out]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

I was recruited by one of the moderators who actively posted on The Bottom Line news-thread.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

Yes. Talkbass.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

The people tend to be less gear-centric compared to most forums and genuinely friendly. I have made personal relationships on this forum; the fact there is a decent concentration of forumites in the New York metropolitan area helped.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

Again, I came to know quite a few of the fellows on this forum. It started with a local gathering at a Guitar Center and spread from there. I have lent gear, attended gatherings, attended gigs, and become friends with a number of the folks here. I have helped facilitate transactions overseas, convinced someone to move to NJ, helped to organize a fundraiser for a sick forumite, and been one of the steady curmudgeons on the board.

 

- - How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

Wow, I had to think about that. Bass? 12 years. I started on piano and then later drums, neither of which I am proficient at. I can play guitar relatively well when necessary and practiced.

 

- - What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

I tend to play independent rock and alternative. I listen to a lot of classic jazz and swing, some classic rock, and some strange alternative stuff most other people do not listen to.

 

- Thank you to all who respond.

 

No sweat, that was fun. Good luck.

[Eric VB]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

I was googling for an answer to a gear question. I found a thread on this site that was full of wisdom and insight. Also, there were some big name regular contributors. I have been hooked ever since.

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

TalkBass, but I don't spend much time there. It doesn't have the same vibe as here. I haven't even checked in to some songwriting forums I used to participate on.

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

The people here, plain and simple. There are many "experts", even if they are or aren't big names. Or as others like to put it, the signal to noise ratio here is higher than other forums. This place also inspires me to be a better player. It's like having dozens of best friends that are also bass players that you can chew the fat with on matters of bass playing, instead of being an isolated bass player who's only contact with other musicians are his/her bandmates who just can't totally relate to bass playing matters.

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

I've done online collaborations with Dave and I've even been over to Steve's for a jam/barbeque that was loads of fun. I've gone out to hear Robb play a couple of times. I've exchanged a number of PMs with several members on topics that were more intimately conversational than what's found in the threads here. (By that I mean something that we found meaningful to share but what others would not find interesting, or just things you wouldn't want to say in public.) Others I've come to know perhaps less formally by constantly exchanging posts on public threads here. All of these relationships were started by online textual exchanges.

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

Been playing bass for 29 years. I also play guitar, mandolin, percussion, and backup vocals.

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

The entire gamut, as much as possible. I admit I'm not that familiar with more exotic world music and newer (post Metallica) metal bands or emo. I listen to classical because I was in the school band and orchestra program for eight years, plus a few college band classes. I listen to jazz because I was introduced to "Spain" by Return to Forever when I was 11 and played it on bass in a jazz band. I listen to classic rock because that's what my friends listened to growing up, and '80s music because that's what was popular when I went clubbing in college. I listen to new country when my wife has control of the radio dial. I like to go to blues festivals and hear people like Koko Taylor. And I'll spin the radio dial and listen to hip hop, R&B, funk, or whatever else is on. Then there are bands that I know that get placed into strange categories, like "orchestral pop". It's all good.

[The Bear Jew]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

I was reading some Bass Player Magazine and Guitar Player Magazine articles several years ago, and I stumbled onto this forum. The conversations looked lively, so I decided to join. I bet they're all sorry now.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

Nah, I don't have the time or energy to meet a bunch of new people. I try to get away from the computer from time to time... so I can gig... or watch TV.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

Everyone thus far has mentioned "the people." I will not do this. The regulars on this forum are absolutely the lowest form of humanity, and they have horrible senses of humor.. which is why I get along with them. Usually.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

After seeing people's opinions dance across my computer screen for a few years, I think I can safely say that I know some of these folks well enough to consider them friends. How sad for all of us. Of course, I have met a few of these folks in person, and

all I can say at this point is that none of them are pressing charges yet.

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

A long time. And yes.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

The music I listen to isn't necessarily much like the music I play and vice versa. I like a lot of different music--this morning I was listening to Indian gangster movie sountracks, but I might check out some Hank Williams this afternoon.

 

Right now I play in a melodic rock band. I used to play in a metal/hardcore band. I've played electronica. Who knows what I'll do next? Let's find out!

[Phil W]

I purposely didn't read anyone else's before I posted mine.

Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one?

 

I have a lot of respect for the magazine - it is not afraid to be scholarly as well as fun, highbrow as well as lowbrow. I guessed it would attrcat a range of people. The converstaions and threads showed a high degree of civility, welcome, knowledge and a small enough number of contributors to 'get to know' posters.

 

What intrigued you about this site?

 

It's about bass, right!

 

-Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

Talkbass although I hardly go there; also a few History forums and technical forums. I also post regularly on Lowdown's sister sites (Guitar Forum and Keyboard Corner).

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

See above, sense of community. Chance to discuss music. Networking with other bassplayers.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I have met five or so. People from this forum have lent/sold me gear, helped me out and hopefully I've been able to help them out. I have gotten to 'know' (virtually) about a dozen or two on this forum; about half a dozen on GC and a couple of guys on KC.

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

I've been playing bass for 25 years. I play very basic guitar and keyboards. I sing badly. I play percussion too.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

1 Jazz and Fusion 2 So called World Music 3 Soul, funk and gospel

4 Rock 5 Reggae 6 Blues 7 Everything else - all music is music. Some is good and some is bad.

 

 

[RhoadBlock]

Thanks to all who helped me out on this paper of mine.

And here's my own answers to the questions I posed. You all told me some about you, I'll tell you a bit about me...

 

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

It started with an essay for class but quickly turned into a means to learn more about music and the bass.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

Not yet, but after reading your responses I might join talkbass.com too.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

I been registered here for a whopping 6 days now and still going strong. I guess I'll stick around for a while. The people are pretty helpful and easy-going form what I've noticed so far.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

Not one as of yet. But it might be cool to meet some of them. I'm sure I'll find many within the forum as I'm posting.

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

About 4 years now. I love playing the bass. I play around with the guitar and drums a little bit but not good enough to consider myself a guitarist or drummer...yet.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

Almost everything. Mostly jazz, blues, rock, and classic rock. Reggae is a blast to play too. Once I got so into music I started to really respect all genres, even country (which caught me off-guard). I guess asking the reason was kinda pointless. Probably the same reason I dip the cinnamon twists in my pintos and cheese when I eat at Taco Bell. I just like it.

[Rocky McDougall]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

I was an avid reader of BassPlayer magazine and found the Forum thru the magazine. I had never particpated in a Forum before.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

I lurk at the Fender bass forum but I don't post often.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

I feel a real friendship with the folks on this Forum and I respect their knowledge and input.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I have only met with two members face to face but would like to meet more.

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

I started playing Steel Guitar in 1948 and Electric bass in 1960

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

Started playing Western in 1948, fell in love with jazz in the 50's, Blues in the 80's, now I have a great respect for most music except Rap.

 

Thank you to all who respond.

[Flemtone]

Well, glad to have you aboard, RhoadBlock! Good questions, forsooth. I enjoyed reading what others said about the site, also. A word of advice, though...we're all pretty normal, but watch out for Eric (CMDN). Keep your hands and feet out of his reach or you'll come down with a severe case of dreds.

[Seamy ALB]

1. I have been buying Bass Player magazine for 14-15 years now. I have always enjoyed the style/quality of the writing and I figured people here would be like minded, so far they seem to be!!

 

2. No this is the only bass forum.

 

3. The level of mutual respect, adult conversation and knowledge of the forum members.

 

4. I've gotten to know a fair few fairly well through the the forum.

 

5. I've been playing bass since April 91 - 16 years this month!!

 

6. Rock, metal, country, alternative and I will play anything. I have always loved the sound of guitar and I've always had a rebellious streak.

[jeremy c]

Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

I was introduced to this forum by Ed Friedland, who was the original moderator. I know him, like him, and respect him. At the time he wrote for Bass Player Magazine, to which I am a long-time subscriber. I began participating right at the beginning and I liked the immediacy and free flow of this forum.

 

Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?I used to participate on The Bottom Line (which is a listserv) and now I lurk there. I also am on the LargeSound.com forum which is for Ashbory bass owners, but there is very little traffic there.

 

What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

This forum stays interesting, the people are friendly, and I'm on my computer all the time anyway.

 

How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

I have met a lot of members personally (I'm losing count) and made many close friendships. Some of these friends and I go through a lot of effort to insure that we see each other regularly and we talk to each other (not on the forum) often.

 

In my travels, I make an effort to search out forum members. I have many friends in the US and all over the world because of this forum.

 

How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

I've been playing bass for over 40 years. I play a lot of other instruments too.

 

What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

I listen to a wide variety of music, including music from many parts of the world. I'm always searching for new, interesting music. I play or have played a large variety of music....whatever comes up...I'm ready for anything. I suppose you could say that jazz and funk are my favorite styles, but that answer is way too limiting to describe what I like to play and listen to.

 

Thank you to all who respond.

No problem. Stop by and say hi if you're ever in the San Francisco area.

 

[mcbn]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

I was looking for a bass forum and I found this one. It came up early in my search results and Im a Bass Player subscriber so I joined. I stuck around because it is a good forum.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

I post on TalkBass occasionally. Im also a member of a few motorcycle and firearms related forums.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

Ive developed a rapport with many of the forumites. Im a member of this community.

 

Ive also found that I can find the answers to any bass related questions here.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

Ive only met one other member in person, which is something that needs to change. Ive exchanged emails and private messages with at least a dozen other forum members.

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

Ive been a bass player for almost 9 years. I also play a little guitar and can fake it on the harmonica when I have to. Im an awesome kazoo player.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

Im currently playing in a Texas Alt. Country band. I do this because I like the people in my band. We have similar philosophies about how to balance work and life.

 

Previously, I played in a metal band. It rocked, but the metal scene isnt really my thing anymore.

 

I listen to everything from new & old blues, older country and all types of rock (indy classic metal). I was raised listening to music and have played the majority of my life.

 

Thank you to all who respond.

 

No problem. Be sure to post a link to your paper when it is finished.

 

[Luke73]

Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

I honestly can't remember how I found bassplayer.com's forum. I subscribed to Bass Player magazine for quite a long time. I think I found a link to their forum whilst checking out the bassplayer.com website one day.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

talkbass.com, and the Australian Bass Player's Collective.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

This forum is great - it's inhabited by (mostly ) nice people, who have a huge depth of knowledge on bass, and are happy to share it. The level of conversation here is generally pretty high.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I haven't met anybody in person - largely because I'm in Australia, and most of the forum members here are in the US. If anyone's ever visiting Australia and find themselves in Melbourne, they're very welcome at my place for a nice meal though

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

I played a little Double Bass in my high school orchestra, but that was around 20 years ago. This time 'round I guess I've been playing close to four years. I don't play any other instruments, but I'm currently doing a keyboard course (mostly to help with my bass playing).

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

I like to listen to lots of different kinds of music. I play in a band that mostly plays original rock music, and have also enrolled in a Music course at a local college where I play in a Jazz group for the next two years.

 

Thank you to all who respond.

 

My pleasure.

 

[JonathanD]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site? I bought a couple issues of bass player and some other bass magazines and found this one suited my needs the best. After receiving my 4th issue I had some EQ questions and found this forum. I asked some questions and got great help. Most everyone was kind, thoughtful, and intelligent.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones? I tried to get on Talk Bass but it was so full of meaningless banter I never continued on it. I had a problem with an Eden cab and used the Eden forum for help, but I dont frequent it now that I dont have problems.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

Because I have learned so much I feel that I will only be able to soak up more bass knowledge by looking around here.

-

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

Dont know any. This might be because not many live close to me, and my typing skills portray me in an annoying manner

-

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

- I have played bass for 9 years or so, saxophone for 14, guitar on and off, organ for 1 year, and drums on and off.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

Well produced, socially/psychologically commenting, heavy music. Sometimes just 2 of the 3 will do. Psychodelic/effected music as well. I think it might be because I am very interested in social and cultural movements, I grew up with a father who played professionally and was very big into getting a good sound maybe to into it, also my brother listened to metallica, Alice in Chains, Iron maiden, red hot chili peppers, and my father mad a living playing those things.

 

- As far as what I play I like these styles but its hard to bridal the want to have that new modern, funk, play a lot sound on bass. My mind runs amuck and I have to try and keep myself from playing too much. It helps to have something else to keep in mind like singing, or running the PA. For the most part I play non 80s metal, grunge, electronic, rock. But I am willing to play about anything.

 

 

Good luck mate, what school are you doing this for?

Jonathan

[picker]

Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

Actually, I started out on the Guitar Player forum, and just happened in on this one.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

I post at a Christian site named Jude2, and the Guitar Player site. Other than buying things on Ebay, that's about the extent of my internet surfing.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

There aren't always people around that want to talk about gear, playing etc.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I don't know anyone from this forum except on this forum.

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

I started playing bass when I was about 17, and as of last Sunday, I am 54 years old. I play the guitar, lap steel, and the mandolin (but only sorta on the mando).

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

I like anything that's done well. My tastes seem to have gravitated to rock, jazz, blues, folk rock, some country, and some modern acoustic music.

 

Thank you to all who respond.

 

My pleasure...

 

[...]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

I was hipped to this forum by a member of the keyboard forum. I registered here after lurking a bit. I liked what I saw here vs. the other music/bass forums.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

I have an account at the talkbass.com forum but I haven't logged on and used it for a year(?) or possible more? Talkbass irritates the living hell out of me. I can't decide if it's the idiotic moderator worship that goes on or the rampant stupidity. Maybe it's both.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

The friendships that I've built here and in general the level of conversation is higher than the other musician forums I've seen. Here I have no doubt that if I had some obscure question about something that I'll get an answer (probably from Jeremy or one of the other sage-like cats).

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I have met several forum members in person and keep in close contact with many more. I've come to know everyone online here and formed friendships via this internets thingie.

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

I've been a bass player for 15 years. In fact it was right around this time (early spring, 1992) that I decided to become a full time bass player and sold all my guitars.

 

I am more a "guitar holder" now than a guitar player but I've been working on that a lot lately. I may even join another cover band as a guitar player here before too long. That'll give me an excuse to finally buy a Mesa Boogie Rectifier combo amp.

 

I also play trumpet but haven't been playing/practicing much in the last 4 or 5 years.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

I listen to a vast array of musical styles. I listen to music because I like it. This coming from someone who has Mahavishnu Orchestra right next to Barry Manilow right next to Massacre in his CD collection. Yeah, it's like that.

 

Thank you to all who respond.

 

You are quite welcome.

[Thomas Wilburn]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

You know, I can't remember for the life of me. I think I just googled for bass advice, and this forum came up at some point. I wasn't reading the magazine yet, so I doubt that was it.

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

I use Talkbass and Bassplaying.com occassionally as resources, but not to the extent of the Lowdown.

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

I go through periods of high activity, and then sometimes I don't visit for 6 months. The feeling of community, however, is very high, and that's a powerful draw.

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I know everyone here only online. I'd like to attend one of the gatherings in the future, but it hasn't come up yet.

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

4 years now, unbelievably. Before that I played harmonica, piano, and clarinet. My family has a pretty long musical tradition, though.

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

Rock, blues. Mostly just familiarity. I think the simplicity of a lot of rock (and punk and metal, by extension) appeals to me. I'm big on the democratization of music. My job sometimes involves listening to--and writing pieces in the style of--international music, like contemporary African and Asian music. I find that to be an interesting and delicate challenge, but I don't usually then carry that work into my personal listening habits.

[RhoadBlock]

To quickly answer JonathanD's question: University of South Florida in Tampa. My major is Mechanical Engineering but of course there's 2 years of money-sucking "general education" before I even get to touch any degree related course that might actually apply in what I do upon graduation.

 

And to satisfy NUTT...yes, I guess I'll have to post my paper for you all to read if you'd like.

 

And once again I want to thank all who have helped so far with my interviews. Hopefully you guys will get me an A! I appreciate getting to somewhat get to know you. I'm sure it will continue as I keep playing bass and posting.

[Tom Capasso]

Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

I can't remember exactly why I ended up here, but it had something to do with Bass Player mag. I liked being able to converse with Ed Friedland, who moderated at the time and was writing for BP.

 

Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which 0nes?

My time is limited, especially since becoming a moderator. I did spend time at The Dudepit, which I enjoyed and wish I could continue there. My limited experiences at talkbass turned my off. I don't own equipment from manufacturers that have forums, but have visited a few (Carvin, Eden). They seem pretty good.

 

What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

It's been the combination of the "style" of discussion (no flame wars) and the sense of community that exists here. And it's not too big. I have also liked being associated with the magazine. It doesn't get us much, but I sort of feel connected.

 

How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

I've gotten to know people very well from their posts. Most people on the forum tell a great deal about themselves. I feel that I know many folks well - to the point that I think of them as friends.

 

I have gotten to meet a pretty good number of people in person. And it's always been very cool. I'm lucky enough to live near a number of forumites, and have borrowed equipment, seen gigs, hung out for lunch or dinner, gone on "shopping trips", and jammed together. We've had "Low Down Meetings", and they've been lots of fun.

 

How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

I started playing something like 39 years ago. I played sax in school, and still play recorder at times. I sing also.

 

What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

There are many types of music that I enjoy - not metal, but lots of rock, some acoustic - it varies. Much of the rock that I like to listen to (and play) comes from what was popular when I was a teen. I currently play in a classic rock band and at church on Sunday. I also play for a theatre troup that puts on a crucifixion play during Lent.

 

Thank you to all who respond.

You're welcome.

I definitely want to read the resulting paper.

 

In case you're curious, Ed F. was moderating as part of his job. Things changed a bit and he stopped moderating, and wrote to a number of regular posters who he thought would continue the "style" of the forum and asked if we'd moderate. Three of us stepped up and have been trying to carry on to make this an interesting place for bassists. We've had a few mods come and go, but the "feel" has remained!

 

Being a moderator has very little influence and not much real power. We have been able to get tickets to the annual BP Live event for folks, and we've had a few folks in the magazine in the "Introduce Yourself" column.

 

Tom

[Steve Force]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

Thank you to all who respond.

 

Q1 - Ed Friedland was active here back in the day, as were many other extremely knowledgeable folks. Most have wandered away for one reason or another....

Q2 - Glance at others but Bass forums are bass forums

Q3 - I find this forum the most genteel of all active bass forums.

Q4 - I have met a few of the posters here.

Q5 - Bass player since 1969. I play keyboards and guitar as well (active participant in Dave Bryce's' Keyboard Corner and CD compilations.)

Q6 - Active Jazz listener since early high school. Rock, Blues, Rap, hip hop, electronic, country AND western, classical; you name it--I listen to it.

[Nicklab]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

I guess the reason why I checked out this forum was because I've been reading the magazine ever since I started playing. I learned a lot from reading the magazine and thought that if they have a forum that it might be cool. I've been active at message boards for other things and found them to be cool resources, so why not try it for bass?

 

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

I have a membership at Talkbass. I posted there for a little while. I've also got a forum membership at a gear manufacturer's site.

 

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

The quality of the membership is what keeps me coming back. There are some very cool people posting here. There's a good back and forth between the members and you're bound to learn something along the way.

 

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I had met at least one member of the forum without knowing it before I even got involved on the site. Since I've been active I've had the opportunity to meet a good dozen members or so. That's been through some organized events.

 

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

My musical training started in grade school on the alto sax. I played that for five years and then took a five year hiatus from music. I've been playing bass now for 16 years.

 

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

What I play? It runs the gamut in terms of rock music, but it mostly stays in the alternative rock area. I've done the classic rock thing too, and some oldies gigs once in a blue moon. I've played loads of blues jams and blues gigs, too. I'm also involved in a fledgling hip-hop project at the moment.

 

As for what I listen to? Classical, jazz, blues, soul, rock, alternative, experimental, some alt-country...it really runs the gamut. I try not to limit myself in what I listen to.

[Newf]

- Why did you register with bassplayer.com's forum as opposed to another one? What intrigued you about this site?

 

The closeness of its community and the quality of info that the members so freely share with each other. The wide diversity of gear/music discussed.

 

 

- Are you a member of any other similar forums? If so, which ones?

 

I have a membership at TalkBass but I've never posted there. Also at the EBMM forum but they don't like talking about non-EBMM gear/strings there so I don't post there very often.

 

 

- What has kept you an active member in this forum for so long? What keeps you coming back?

 

The lack of flamefests from village idiots is wonderful. My taste in music has been continuously spreading since coming here. I get regularly turned on to great music and ideas that I would have never found on my own.

 

 

- How well do you know any other members within this forum? How many members have you gotten to know? How did you come to know them?

 

I don't know many other members well besides what they generally post. I've only PM'd a handful of times. I'd like to meet many of the members if I were closer to them. I don't know if we have any other members here in Saskatchewan.

 

 

- How long have you been a bass player? Do you play any other instruments too?

 

I've been playing bass for just under 2 years now. I don't play any other instruments.

 

 

- What kind of music do you play and/or listen to? Any particular reason?

 

I like blues, metal, classic rock, punk and funk. Pretty much everything but most country and hip-hop.

 

 

- Thank you to all who respond.

 

You're quite welcome.

 

Cheers

Newf