For the last seven years, Gregory A. Franklin has functioned as a partner and family law attorney at Ashcraft Franklin Young & Peters, LLP, in Rochester, New York. Gregory A. Franklin additionally works as a professional bassist with Marjorie Thompson.
For individuals preparing to purchase a bass guitar for the first time, choosing between a four-string, five-string, and six-string model is one of the first decisions that must be made. The vast majority of mainstream musicians use a standard four-string bass, which is the model not only the most commonly available to aspiring bass players but also the one that allows beginners to benefit from a narrow, easy-to-handle neck. Tuning a four-string bass is also simpler than five- and six-string models, while alternative playing styles like slap bass are easier to learn.
The five-string bass is another solid option for beginners, though slightly more challenging than a four-string instrument due to the wider neck and crowded fret board. Musicians who plan on playing in drop D or drop C tuning more often than standard tuning should carefully consider a five-string bass.
Finally, a six-string bass provides musicians interested in solo bass work with plenty of room to experiment. The advantages of a six-string bass, however, are more aimed at experienced bassists rather than beginners.
