How to Master the Fingerboard With Felix Pastorius
Felix Pastorius—a name that resonates through the world of bass—is a legend in his own right.
If you haven't heard of him, well, let me enlighten you. Felix is the son of none other than Jaco Pastorius, the revolutionary bassist who changed the game forever. And while it's cool to acknowledge his lineage, we're here to celebrate Felix as a virtuosic bass player in his own right.
Felix is undeniably one of the best bass players in existence. He didn't inherit his skills; he worked tirelessly to reach this level of mastery. Lucky for us, I had the privilege of spending a day with Felix in New York, capturing some incredible insights.
Check out this video where we dive deep into the aspects that truly make a difference in leveling up your bass skills:
Originally published on August, 24th, 2019, this article was updated and republished on October 30th, 2023.
Exploring the Symmetry
Felix's approach to bass practice is symmetrical and methodical. He often bases his practice on three-note patterns, creating a balanced and harmonious approach to playing.
By taking a major scale and playing three notes per string, he creates a symmetrical pattern that can be applied across the fretboard.
Expanding the Horizons
One of the keys to Felix's mastery is his ability to expand his understanding across different modes, scales, and keys.
He suggests exploring various modes, including harmonic major, harmonic minor, and more. By expanding your horizons, you open up a world of possibilities in your bass playing!
Avoiding the Root Trap
Felix warns against the common trap of hitting the root note every time you start soloing.
Instead, he recommends thinking in terms of thirds or sixes as extensions of your current tonality. This mental shift allows you to break free from the root-centric approach and explore new musical territories.
Learn From Felix and Mike Bendy
In the video, you might have noticed another incredible bass player alongside Felix. That's Mike Bendy, a monstrous bassist in his own right. If you've seen the video, you know the level of bass wizardry he brings to the table!
If you're an Academy member, you can explore the full hour-and-a-half episode where Felix and Mike break down their techniques at your leisure.
If you’re not yet signed up for the Academy, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Once you sign up, you’ll have access to a wealth of resources and tutorials to help you achieve your bass-playing goals!
