Double bass

What is a double bass?

The double bass is the deepest, strongest and largest string string instrument and forms the foundation of many musical styles such as classical, jazz and rock. The double bass is often referred to as the bass or bass violin and is popular because of its versatile role in the music world.

The double bass usually has four strings, but instruments with five strings are also used in symphony orchestras to extend the range downwards. The size and weight of the double bass require a special playing posture and technique in order to handle the instrument correctly. Double bass players must master both fingering and bowing in order to express the full sound of the instrument.

In symphony orchestras, the double bass is known for its distinctive foundation and bass lines, which give the orchestra stability and depth. In jazz, the double bass acts as part of the rhythm section and contributes to the swinging groove. In modern music genres such as rock ‘n’ roll and rockabilly, the double bass provides a unique and unmistakable sound.

The double bass has undergone a fascinating development over the centuries and has become an indispensable part of the musical world. From its historical connection to the viola da gamba to the innovative developments of modern double bass makers, the instrument has a rich history and a promising future.

With its deep and resonant sound, the double bass is an instrument that can shine in both solo and ensemble performances. Whether in the classical symphony, in the jazz club or on the rock stage – the double bass remains a master of depth and an indispensable part of music.

History of the double bass

In the 19th century, the double bass began to establish itself in its current form. The Italian double bass maker Giovanni Bottesini played an important role in the development of the modern double bass. He designed instruments with a larger body and longer necks to produce an even deeper and more powerful sound. Bottesini was also an outstanding double bass player and composer and wrote numerous solo pieces and concertos for his instrument. Over time, other technical improvements were also made to the double bass.

The introduction of machine tuning pegs made it easier to tune the instrument, while the development of metal strings led to a stronger and more tonally varied sound. The use of end pins, which enabled the double bass player to rest the instrument on the floor, improved the playing posture and comfort while playing.

Nowadays, the double bass has a firm place in orchestras, chamber music ensembles and jazz bands. Its deep and powerful sound gives musical compositions a solid foundation and adds a special depth to harmonic and rhythmic elements. The double bass is used both as a melody instrument and as an accompanying instrument and can serve a variety of styles and genres.

The history of the double bass is characterized by continuous development and innovation. Through the contributions of talented double bass makers and virtuoso double bass players, the instrument has been continuously improved and has gained its place as an important element in the world of music. From its baroque beginnings to modern concert and jazz music, the double bass is a fascinating instrument that offers both tonal and technical challenges and is indispensable for creating profound and captivating music.

Structure and special features of the double bass

The body of the double bass is usually made of laminated wood or solid wood. It has a concave shape, which gives it greater sound projection. The top of the body is curved to increase resonance and amplify the sound. The back of the body is flatter and amplifies the low frequencies.

The long neck of the double bass allows the player to press the strings across the fingerboard to produce different tones. The neck can also be fretted to give players a better orientation. However, frets are not standard on the double bass as many players prefer the freedom to control the exact intonations by placing their fingers on the fingerboard.

The double bass usually has four thick strings, which are usually made of steel or nylon. The strings are bowed or plucked with the fingers. Plucking the strings, also known as pizzicato, produces a percussive and rhythmic sound, while bowing produces a softer and more controlled tone.

Another characteristic feature of the double bass is the endpin. This long, extendable pin is located at the lower end of the instrument and allows the player to rest the double bass on the floor in order to achieve a more comfortable playing position.

The double bass is a unique instrument due to its size, deep tone and diverse playing techniques. Its unique sound forms the foundation of the music and lends musical compositions a special depth and presence. Whether in the orchestra, in jazz or in other musical genres – the double bass is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and a key instrument for creating wonderful musical works.

How is the sound produced on the double bass?

The sound of the double bass is produced by bowing the string with the bow or plucking the string with the right hand. The pitch is changed by pressing the string down with the fingertips of the left hand. This shortens the vibrating part of the string and the tone becomes higher.

The double bass can be played both standing up and sitting down, with the spine of the instrument resting on the floor. The thumb attachment is used in higher registers and for double stops and harmonics.

Handle system

Changing strings and positions

The double bass has five strings that are tuned in fourths: B2 (5th string), E1 (4th string), A1 (3rd string), D (2nd string) and G (1st string). The lowest string is closest to the bowing hand.

In principle, the sound production of the double bass does not differ significantly from that of smaller string instruments. However, as the strings of the double bass are more than three times as long as those of a violin, the fingering distances for whole tones and semitones are also significantly greater. For example, you need the length of a violin fingerboard on the double bass to finger a major third (two whole tones). This results in a special fingering system.

As with all stringed instruments, the fingering is based on the action system. Due to the enormous length of the strings (95-115 cm), the semitone intervals are very large. This is why the strings are tuned in fourths and not fifths.

The fingering is not chromatic throughout; a maximum of one whole tone step is possible without changing position. For example, on the D string, the 1st finger plays the E, the 2nd (or 3rd) the F and the 4th the F sharp. The G is already the next empty string. Up to the thumb position (from the 7th position), the 3rd and 4th fingers are treated as one finger. The most important fingers for tone production are therefore the 1st, 2nd and 4th fingers, whereby the 3rd is often used to support the 4th, which corresponds to the anatomy of the hand.

This fingering applies up to the 6th position. From the 7th position onwards, the thumb is used, whereby a total of five thumb positions are used on all four strings.

Flageolet

The natural harmonic is produced by placing the finger on the corresponding part of the open string. On the double bass it responds particularly easily and is played on the B and E strings up to the 6th partial and on the A, D and G strings up to the 8th partial. However, higher harmonics are also possible, which are required in solo parts. The harmonics are not transposed (one octave higher than the fixed notes), but correspond to the actual sound. Due to the pitch, the notation is in treble clef.

In contrast to the higher string instruments, the artificial harmonics on the double bass can only be played to a very limited extent. In the lower register, thirds, fourths and fifths are not possible. Artificial harmonics in the fourth position are possible between the 1st and 8th thumb position and are usually only played on the G string.

Bowing the double bass

The bowing of the double bass is basically the same as that of the higher string instruments. The bow must form a right angle to the string along its entire length in order to produce the clearest possible tone. The bow is stronger at the frog than at the tip. The bow speed must be adapted to the bow pressure: a higher bow speed in combination with a higher bow pressure produces a more powerful sound.

Playing techniques and challenges of the double bass

Finger control when playing the double bass requires good hand muscles and finger flexibility in order to produce the right notes on the fingerboard. The strings are thicker and the distance between them is greater than on other string instruments, so precise positioning of the fingers is very important.

Bowing is another important technique when playing the double bass. The double bass bow is longer and heavier than the bows of other string instruments. Players must learn to hold the bow correctly and apply even pressure to the strings in order to produce a clear and balanced sound. Bowing also allows control of dynamics, articulation and timbre.

One challenge when playing the double bass is the support technique. Due to the size and weight of the instrument, it is important to support the double bass on the floor to relieve the weight and allow a comfortable playing position. This requires good posture and stability to hold the instrument securely while allowing the hands to move freely.

Mastering the double bass requires time, patience and regular practice. The physical demands of the instrument can be strenuous, so good physical fitness is an advantage. However, the double bass is also an extremely rewarding instrument that produces a unique and impressive sound. With dedication and passion, double bass players can master the technical challenges and explore the tonal possibilities of this wonderful instrument.

The double bass in orchestral and jazz music

The double bass plays a central role in orchestral and jazz music and lends both genres their characteristic sound. In the orchestra, the double bass is an indispensable instrument that consolidates the musical framework and supports the entire orchestra. The low notes of the double bass add immense depth and richness to the orchestra and help to create a balanced sound.

In jazz music, the double bass is a driving element in the rhythm section. With its pulsating and rhythmic playing, it gives the pieces a swinging groove and forms the harmonic backbone. Double bass players in jazz use various playing techniques such as walking bass, in which they improvise melodic lines in the lower registers and shape the musical flow.

The double bass offers a wide range of tonal possibilities in both genres. Through the use of bowing and plucking techniques, the double bass can produce a wide range of sounds and moods. From soft and melodic passages to powerful and percussive rhythms, the double bass is able to offer a variety of forms of expression.

Virtuoso double bassists have done ground-breaking work in both genres and fully exploited the instrument’s potential. They have created solo pieces and chamber music compositions that demonstrate the versatility and beauty of the double bass.

Whether in an orchestra or a jazz ensemble, the double bass is an indispensable instrument that enriches the sound and plays a key role in musical interpretation. Its unique timbre and diverse playing techniques make it a fascinating instrument in the world of music.

Virtuoso double bassists and famous compositions

Virtuoso double bassists such as Gary Karr and Edgar Meyer have impressively demonstrated the instrument’s potential in solo pieces and chamber music. They show the versatility and expressiveness of the double bass and constantly push the boundaries of its playing. Composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach, Sergei Koussevitzky and Giovanni Bottesini have written important concertos and sonatas for the double bass that challenge the instrument both technically and tonally, while at the same time honoring its artistic possibilities.

The double bass is undoubtedly a fascinating instrument that plays an indispensable role in the world of music. Its history, special features, playing techniques and its use in various musical genres make it a true master of depth and sound foundation.

Instrument of the year 2010

The double bass was voted Instrument of the Year 2010 by the regional music councils. This special award recognizes the importance and versatility of the double bass and its outstanding role in music.

List of famous double bass players

Dimitri Ovcharenko(1978): Russian-German soloist and chamber musician
Dingli Chen (1970): Chinese soloist and chamber musician
Eberhard Weber(1955): German jazz musician and composer
Eduardo Bottero (1977): Colombian soloist and chamber musician
François Rabbath(1953): French soloist and chamber musician
Franco Petracchi (1926-2014): Italian soloist and chamber musician
Gary Karr (1927-2000): US-American soloist and chamber musician
Gilles Vigneault (1952): French soloist and chamber musician
Gregor Hildenbrand(1976): German soloist and chamber musician
Hans-Eberhard Koch (1924-2016): German soloist and chamber musician
Heinz Kretschmar (1933-2009): German soloist and orchestral musician
Israel Gutfeld (1947): Russian-Israeli soloist and chamber musician
Jaco Pastorius (1951-1987): US-American jazz musician and composer
Jean-Jacques Lefèvre(1952): French soloist and chamber musician
Karl Böhm (1886-1981): Austrian conductor and double bass player
Larry Rachleff (1943): US-American soloist and chamber musician
Ludwig Streicher (1825-1893): Austrian soloist and composer
Manuel Arevalo(1975): Venezuelan soloist and chamber musician
Mats Rondén (1961): Swedish soloist and chamber musician
Oliver Strauss(1955): German soloist and chamber musician
Orpheo Zajc (1943): Croatian soloist and chamber musician
Paul Grünebaum (1901-1983): Austrian-American soloist and chamber musician
Rodney Slatford(1947): English soloist and orchestral musician
Ryszard Kubicki (1959): Polish soloist and chamber musician
Sergio Villa(1947): Italian soloist and chamber musician
Siergiej Kusewitsky (1880-1967): Russian conductor and double bassist
Stephan Stix (1971): Austrian soloist and chamber musician
Steven Isserlis(1955): English soloist and chamber musician
Ulf Samuelsson (1961): Swedish soloist and chamber musician
Václav Smetana (*1942): Czech soloist and chamber musician

Manufacturer of double basses

Berger
Eastwood
Gliga
Haynes
Jacobson
Klier
Maggini
Ruby
Shen
Storioni

How much does a double bass cost?

The price of a double bass can vary greatly and depends on various factors. In this text, we will look at the most important aspects that influence the price of a double bass and give you an overview of the different price categories as well as the additional costs that may be incurred when buying a double bass.

Manufacturer and model

A decisive factor for the price of a double bass is the manufacturer and the model. Entry-level models from inexpensive manufacturers are available from around €1,000. High-quality instruments from renowned brands, on the other hand, can cost several thousand euros. Antique or handmade professional basses in particular can reach prices of over €100,000.

Size

The size of the double bass also influences the price. Smaller double basses, which are often intended for children, are generally cheaper than larger models for adults.

Material

The material of the double bass plays an important role in the price. Plywood models are cheaper than those made of solid wood. However, solid wood offers a better sound, which makes these instruments more expensive.

Equipment

A double bass with accessories such as a case, strings and rosin is more expensive than an instrument without accessories. You should therefore pay attention to which accessories are included when buying.

Condition

The condition of the double bass also influences the price. Used double basses are generally cheaper than new instruments. However, antique or very well-preserved double basses can also fetch high prices.