A week ago, my son said that a 19 year old coworker of his just began playing bass. He wants me to teach him something. This is weird. I don't read music. I've had no formal music training, other than sax lessons that ended when I was in 8th grade, 4000 years ago. I just know what I know, ya know? My left hand positions are nothing like what's taught anywhere on earth, although a trained bassist is pushing me in a better direction.
I pointed out to my son that since he reads music fluently, a better idea might be a good bass book for his friend, and for him to help the kid with music reading. That idea didn't fly (yet). I told him I'd consider the idea, but reminded him that the kid would probably be learning some bad habits from me. As of this morning, I'm 93% of the way to caving in and saying yes.
What the hell do I teach the kid? My first instinct is to teach him some basic blues patterns, but maybe the first step is scales and neck patterns, which brings us back to the idea of a book.
All input welcome. Hurry. :-)