Date of Award

12-1-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Liberal Studies

College

College of Humanities and Fine Arts

First Advisor

Emilio Terranova

Second Advisor

Alan J. Reid

Third Advisor

David W. Carter, Jr.

Abstract

Proficient navigation of the 5-string electric bass requires a comprehensive mastery of various techniques and a solid understanding of music theory. This includes a detailed grasp of arpeggios, chord extensions, and the development of deeply ingrained muscle memory for precise execution. This thesis introduces a structured methodology that refines existing fretboard visualization techniques and applies a unique manner of fretboard mapping, offering a more precise framework for comprehending and unlocking the full range of the instrument. By drawing insights from music theory, music education, cognitive science, neuroscience, and technology this approach is achieved by synthesizing research on visual pattern recognition, harmonic structures, and neuroplasticity. The overall objective of this work aims to establish an optimized framework in learning and technical execution for bassists. The study examines traditional and contemporary teaching methods that evaluate how visualization techniques aid muscle memory and correlate to applied performance and improvisational fluency. The research also considers socioeconomic factors affecting access to music education and technology-based learning tools and analyzes the potential of emerging technologies including augmented reality, capacitive sensing, and AI driven feedback bolstering visual and motor skill acquisition.

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