Is it ever too late to learn to play an instrument?

[Mitch555]

Hey everyone,

I'm an 18 year old student and I've been getting very bored these days, and I've decided that learning to play Bass would be a pretty good thing to do. Problem is, last time I played an instrument was in 9th grade where I took piano lessons for a year, so I know nothing about string-based instruments.

Is it simply ''too late'' to learn or is there still hope? Keep in mind that I don't want to play ''seriously''. Just want to play bass as a hobby, as I've always found bass guitar and bassists in general to be cool.

Also, if you could suggest some good guides to teach me about the basics, I'd really appreciate that.

 

[Sigz]

It's never too late to learn. I mean, the odds of becoming the next John Myung are much smaller now, but you're totally able to learn just for fun.

[robwebster]

Pah, JM only started at 14! 18's plenty young enough. You're putty! Practically a foetus! Not many people become prodigies in their teens, it's a clever time to lay down some groundwork but you can catch up four years no prob. People learn at different rates anyway. Won't be too late till you're well into your sixties.

And even then you could still get somewhere!

[brakkum]

Nah, as long as you have a genuine interest and don't get too cocky about it or get too frustrated about it.

[PlaysLikeMyung]

I'd say it's not too late. Don't wait until you're 30 though. And when you can, definitely take some formal lessons. Teaching yourself really only gets you so far

[skydivingninja]

I just started at age 18 myself.  I'm 19 now and can play through "Natural Science," "Hysteria," and "The Real Me."  Since you haven't had much music knowledge in the past, lessons will be a must.  I've only had about 2 months worth of them since I go to school in another state, but they really do help a LOT.  Go for it man!

[fivestring]

You're 18 and you're pondering if it's "too late"

The only thing you're too late for is to be a child prodigy who plays YYZ by age 11 and posts it on YouTube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XsYuHbXZUk


You're in your prime dude. Pick it up and rock the f*#K out!

[Basekick]

Ha, I started playing guitar at the age of 17, and I'm planning on trying to so professional when I graduate college this year at age 22.  It's never too late as long as you have the passion to play!

[setrataeso]

It helps if you have previous knowledge of other instruments, or some knowledge of music theory.
It's never too late to learn something. Being good depends on your commitment and enjoyment of the instrument you choose to learn. A 30-year-old could learn guitar just as well as a 13-year-old can. It just so happens that most 30-year-olds have other things to do, and can't fully commit to taking lessons. I happened to have lots of free time on my hands for the last 4 months. I was determined to improve my drumming skills. So I practiced every day and now I'm a much better drummer. If you have the commitment and love for learning an instrument, then there is no reason why you can't learn now.