String instrument
The Double Bass
The double bass is the largest and lowest of the bowed strings — the sonic foundation of orchestra and band, and the driving force in jazz.
At a glance
The double bass is the largest and lowest bowed string instrument. It is played standing or perched on a high stool and forms the harmonic and rhythmic foundation of many ensembles. Unlike the violin and cello, its strings are tuned in fourths — an inheritance from the old viol family.
History & origins
The double bass combines features of the violin and viol families, visible among other things in its tuning in fourths and its often sloping shoulders. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries it became a permanent member of the orchestra. In the twentieth it became the heart of the jazz rhythm section, shaping swing, bebop and many further styles.
Construction & how it works
The body is very large so that it can project the low notes powerfully; an endpin supports the instrument. It is played with the bow — in either the German or the French pattern — or with the fingers (pizzicato). Like all classical bowed strings, the double bass has no frets on its fingerboard.
Sound & tuning
The four strings are tuned in fourths: E, A, D and G; the double bass sounds an octave lower than written. Its sound is deep and resonant. Classical playing is predominantly bowed (arco), while jazz favours the plucked walking bass, in which the bass steps note by note through the harmonies and gives the music its pulse.
Playing & technique
Because the instrument is so large, the distances between notes are wide; the left hand works in clearly defined positions. The right hand bows or plucks. Playing the double bass is physical — posture and a relaxed approach to the big instrument matter. In jazz, techniques such as the percussive slap are added.
Role & repertoire
In the orchestra the double bass is the deep foundation; in jazz it is the soul of the rhythm section. Beyond that it turns up in tango, rockabilly, folk and many other styles. Bowed or plucked, it gives the music steadiness, depth and momentum.
Getting started at our music school
Most pupils can begin at around eight to ten years old, depending on their height. The double bass too is made in smaller sizes (1/8 or 1/4, for example), so younger students can start. We work out which size fits together in the lessons.
Bow & playing styles
There are two patterns of bass bow: the German bow, held underhand, and the French bow, whose grip resembles that of the cello and violin. Both are equally valid — which suits you is decided in the lessons. Jazz adds percussive slap playing, in which the strings snap audibly against the fingerboard.
Practicalities
Its size means the double bass needs room for practising and storage as well as a padded transport cover; many players use a high stool. It should be stood upright in a safe place to prevent it toppling over. Smaller models make starting easier for younger players until they have grown enough for a larger instrument.
For beginners: what makes the double bass special?
The double bass is a foundation instrument in the truest sense: you feel the low notes physically and hold a load-bearing role in any band. Bass players are in demand, because good ones are rare — anyone who learns the instrument soon finds a place in ensembles of every style. Despite its size, starting out is very manageable on a suitably scaled-down instrument. And the sure sense of time that the bass trains so well will help you on every other instrument.