Bassline Rules

MUS 401D (Boyle) Ten Basic Patterns for Bass Lines

1. DOWN SCALE The most basic pattern is the descending scale. No chromatic notes needed.

2. UP SCALE + CPT Another basic pattern moves up the scale and may use a chromatic passing tone (CPT) to lead to the root of the next chord.

3. UP SCALE + UNT The ascending scale pattern may leap over the goal note and step into it from its upper neighbour tone (UNT).

4. ASCENDING ARPEGGIO + CPT If the line does not move in steps, then it may move in leaps. The arpeggio allows for harmonic clarity and some larger intervals than steos. After the ascending arpeggio, it may approach the next root through a chromatic passing tone.

5. INVERTED ARPEGGIO + CPT The arpeggio may be inverted. The leap down creates more interest following measures of just step motion.

6. DESCENDING ARPEGGIO + CPT Descending arpeggios may be followed by a CPT into the next root.

7. INVERTED ARPEGGIO + CPT The arpeggio may be inverted or broken, skipping over one tone to reach the next.

8. UNT The constant stream of steps and leaps may be interrupted by a pattern using the upper neighbour tones. (From personal experience at faster tempi, this pattern can save a fatigued bassist).

9. REPEATED NOTES Repeated notes can also provide a reprieve from constant motion.

10. ROOT AND FIFTH This simple pattern should not be avoided. It can prove very useful and effective musically. Roots and fifths are the bassists primary tools. How many bass players does it take to change a lightbulb? One – five – one – five – one….