Bass Guitar Course at COPA – Become the Backbone of the Band
Master Groove, Rhythm & Harmony Through Expert Bass Training.
Unlock your power as the backbone of any band with COPA’s dynamic Bass Guitar Course. Whether you aspire to be a studio session player, live performer, composer, or educator, this course will equip you with the precision, creativity, and confidence to pursue a professional career in music.
What You’ll Learn
The Bass Guitar Course is one of five core specialisations within COPA’s full-time Music Performance programme, alongside Drums, Guitar, Keyboard, and Vocals. As a bass student, you’ll receive expert instruction in groove-building, harmonic support, music theory, improvisation, and a wide range of genres—from jazz and funk to rock and pop.
Course highlights include:
- Scales, modes, and harmony for bass players
- Groove development and genre-specific techniques
- Live performance and studio recording experience
- Ear training and music literacy
- Ensemble work, collaboration, and stage presence
Study More Than One Instrument (Optional)
Want to broaden your skill set? If your timetable allows, you can enrol in a second instrument as a full course for an additional fee.
Why Study Bass at COPA?
At COPA, your training is hands-on and performance-focused from day one. You’ll learn from seasoned musicians and industry-active professionals who understand the realities of today’s music world. Our bass alumni have gone on to become sought-after touring musicians, educators, studio artists, and even musical directors. If you’re ready to take control of your future and build a solid foundation in the music industry, COPA is the place to start!
Qualification:
Campus of Performing Arts Music Performance Certificate
Duration:
This is a one-year stand-alone certificate. The certificate can be studied in a full-time capacity in one year or in a part-time capacity over two years. Entry into this course is subject to passing an audition.
Modules:
- Aural (Ear Training)
- Compose and Arrange Music
- Keyboard Skills
- Live Performance Workshop
- Music Business
- Music Culture
- Music Theory
- Practical Instrument: Bass Guitar | Drums | Guitar | Keyboard | Vocals
- Stage Presence
Fees:
Registration Fee: R2,500.00
Full-Time (12 months):
Upfront: R69,995.00
Quarterly: R18,748.75 x 4
Debit Order: R6,590.45 x 11 months
Part-Time (24 months):
Upfront: R69,995.00
Quarterly: R9,374.38 x 8
Debit Order: R3,295.23 x 22 months
Qualification:
Diploma in Music (SAQA ID: 96373)
Duration:
3 Years.
Modules:
Year 1:
- All about the Business
- Applied Technical Studies
- Academic Writing Skills
- Create and Arrange Music
- Ear Training
- Ethics and Professionalism in the Music Industry in South Africa
- Health and Safety
- Live Performance Practice 1
- Music Industry Overview
- Music Theory
- Professional Reading
- Session Styles
Year 2:
- Business Ethics
- Creative Musicianship
- Getting Industry Ready
- Entrepreneurial Practice
- Live Performance Practice 2
- Music Industry Practical
- Research Methods
- Songwriting and Arrangement
Year 3:
- Action Learning Plan
- Developing a Business Plan
- Music in a Digital World
- Music Industry Practical
- Professional Performance
- Specialised Project
Fees:
Registration Fee: R2,500.00
Year 1 Fees:
Upfront: R81,495.00
Quarterly: R21,911.25 x 4
Debit Order: R7,688.18 x 11 months
Possible career opportunities for bass players include, but are not limited to:
- Music Performer
- Session Musician
- Private Music Instructor
- Retail Music Salesperson
- Advanced Musical Technician
Some great, famous bassists include Jaco Pistorius, John Patitucci, and Victor Wooten.
Ready to Complete the Bass Guitar Audition?
Certificate:
1 Year
(Full-Time: 12 months contact learning)
(Part-Time: 24 months contact learning – 4/5 hours per week)
Diploma in Music:
3 Years
Language:
English
Other Full-Time Courses:
Do you have a Question?
Let us call you