How to play bass guitar?

any book by Mel Bay is usually pretty good. it's what i learned on.

it'll be easier for you to learn since you can already read... way to go. you'll still need to learn fingering; remember to be patient.

as for learning to play by ear, pick up a bongo or a lap drum for the rhythm part (bass is a rhythm instrument, and the more you can detect & play off beats, time signatures, etc. the better your notes will sound.

as for the actual technical section of improv & by-ear playing, PLAY with people! get in a band (even a bad one), jam with your friends, or play with your favorite album.

even if you only play 15-20 minutes a day, do it. it helps muscle memory to do it every day.

way to go for picking up bass, by the way! it's a great instrument; i hope you like it as much as i do.

Im thinking if you go to a musical store that sells musical instruments, you could maybe get some discounted books on playing you bass. Or try calling a used book store, if you have one close to you, and see if they might have them, it's very possible. I hope this has been of some help to you.

And I wish you all the best in learning, if your real determined, I bet you learn ibn no time at all. ; )

Being able to play by ear takes a lot of practice! I taught myself how to play bass and the 6 string guitar. A good place to go to for videos and books is http://www.musiciansfriend.com/

You can also get a lot of great supplies at low prices!