GBS Theory Workshop No.8 – Latin Bass & the Clave

 Session Dates:

• Session 1: Wednesday 24 June, 3:00–4:00pm (BST)
• Session 2: Thursday 2 July, 3:00–4:00pm (BST)

In GBS Theory Workshop No.8 – Latin Bass & the Clave, we’ll demystify the rhythm at the heart of so much Latin and Latin‑flavoured music: the clave. Rather than treating it as abstract theory, we’ll look at how bass players actually feel and support the clave in real grooves.

Across two one‑hour sessions, you’ll learn the four essential patterns – son clave and rumba clave, each in 3‑2 and 2‑3 – and how to clap, count and recognise them. From there, we’ll build simple, musical bass lines that lock in with the clave without getting too technical.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll be able to:

• Clap and count 3‑2 and 2‑3 son clave and rumba clave, and hear which side is which.
• Play a bass pattern that works with both 3‑2 and 2‑3 son clave.
• Shape a bass line so it “answers” the 3‑side and leaves space on the 2‑side.
• Use a rhumba‑blues‑style bass groove that sits comfortably with rumba clave.
• Move these patterns between I, IV and V and simple ii–V–I progressions without losing the feel.

Level: High‑beginner to intermediate bassists.
Format: Live on Zoom, 2 × 1‑hour sessions.
Resources: Full replays, PDFs and backing tracks included.

Click here to pay in UK Pounds (£)

Hear what players have to say...

“Thank you Greg for putting together your theory workshop. Beginning bassists should find it to be a perfect foundation upon which they can build upon.” - Lee Fowble

"I took part in your Walking Workshop and loved it! Your explanation of why All My Loving works has given me the knowledge and confidence to stray away from the chord tones in other songs. Thanks!" - Martin Carman