A double bass is usually strung with four heavy strings pitched E 1 –A 1 –D–G; a fifth string is occasionally added—in jazz band basses, at the top of the register to allow high notes to be played more easily; in symphony orchestra basses, below the E string, tuned to C.
How is the double bass played?
The double bass is played with a bow (arco), or by plucking the strings (pizzicato), or via a variety of extended techniques . In orchestral repertoire and tango music, both arco and pizzicato are employed. In jazz, blues, and rockabilly, pizzicato is the norm.
What is the point of a double bass?
The lowest of all string instruments , the double bass (pronounced “base,” not like the fish) is enormous, bigger around than the average human being. The instrument can play much lower than anyone can sing, and it provides the foundation for the orchestra’s sound.
Does the double bass play the melody?
Its powerful sound must provide a solid foundation which can support the sound structure and with which the other instruments blend. ... It should not be overbearing. On the other hand it is also capable of playing melody lines , solo lines which stand out.
What is unique about the double bass?
The double bass is truly a remarkable instrument. It is the largest of all the stringed instruments that feature in a modern-day symphony orchestra . Also, it has the lowest pitch amongst all stringed instruments.
Is double bass difficult?
The double bass is a tough master – demanding strength, stamina and proper technique from its player. As the root of the orchestra, musical and rhythmic accuracy are imperative to the success of the whole – requiring plenty of practice and repetition.
Who is a famous double bass player?
Some of the most influential contemporary classical double bass players are known as much for their contributions to pedagogy as for their performing skills, such as US bassist Oscar Zimmerman (1910–1987), known for his teaching at the Eastman School of Music and, for 44 summers at the Interlochen Music Camp in ...
What is a 3/4 double bass?
99.5% of the basses are 3/4 size. But you will find that 3/4 size is by far most common bass size. A 4/4 or full size bass is really considered more of a “jumbo” or “XXL” bass – and mostly they are used in orchestras and by very tall people.
Are bass lines melodies?
Simply put: The bass line is normally played on a bass instrument, while the melody is not . If you train your ear to recognise the sounds of the bass guitar you will be able to listen carefully to identify the bass in the mix and then follow what it plays to hear the bass line.
What size double bass should I get?
The standard size for adults is a 3⁄4 double bass . A large double bass such as a 7⁄8 or 4/4 is very rare and not commonly used unless the person is very tall, 6.5′ + in height or they have unusually large hands. A general rule for children is to choose a bass one size smaller than usual violin size for age.
Why is the double bass so big?
The instrument’s standard English name, double bass may be derived from the size of the double size, since it is approximately twice as large as the cello , or because the double bass was originally used to double the cello part an octave lower.
What is the difference between a bass and a double bass?
The difference between a bass guitar and a double bass is that the bass guitar is smaller, it’s held perpendicular to the player’s body , it’s often amplified via a bass amplifier, and it’s played with fingers or a pick. Double basses are larger, they’re stood upright, and they can be played with a bow.
How old is the double bass?
Forms of the double bass date from the late 15th or early 16th century and were in common use by the 18th century. Ludwig van Beethoven and later composers gave the bass increased importance in the symphony orchestra.
Do double bass players sit or stand?
Interestingly, some double basses just really lend themselves to being played either sitting or standing . Some basses are constructed in such a way that touching the back with the leg (it’s almost impossible to avoid this in any sort of seated position) will mute the instrument quite noticeably.
Which is harder violin or double bass?
Double bass is harder if you try to put it under your chin. Violin is harder if you try to stand it upright and bow from the side. Played in their normal ways, however, both are equally difficult to master completely. The bass, especially played pizzicato, is easier to play at a level adequate for many kinds of music.
Should I learn to play double bass?
Learning to play the double bass is a wonderful thing. As a double bass player, you will have many varied opportunities that you can pursue. The double bass is not just an orchestral instrument and is widely used in Jazz and Big Band music. ... New to musical instrument playing and possibly no previous musical experience.
