Can the double bass be played as a solo instrument?
The challenge of playing solo bass is a steep one. Not only are there physical problems with playing the bass as a solo instrument, there’s also the fact it has a comparatively thin repertoire. However, the double bass should not only be judged on the size of its repertoire.
Is double bass used in jazz?
Jazz bass is the use of the double bass or electric bass to improvise accompaniment (“comping”) basslines and solos in a jazz or jazz fusion style. Most jazz bassists specialize in either the double bass or the electric bass, although the ability to “double” (play both instruments) is common.
Why is a double bass called double?
The double bass is the largest and lowest-pitched bowed string instrument in the modern symphony orchestra. The origin of the name of the double bass stems from the fact that its initial function was to double the bass line of large ensembles.
Why is bass important in jazz?
In jazz, the bass instrument functions as the bridge between rhythm and harmony—providing a strong beat and the root notes of the chords. In the early history of jazz, the instruments used in this foundational role were the string bass, the tuba and the bass saxophone.
Why is it called a contrabass?
The name contrabass comes from the instrument’s Italian name, contrabbasso. Other terms for the instrument among classical performers are string bass, bass viol, or simply bass. Jazz musicians often call it the acoustic bass to distinguish it from electric bass guitars.
How do you play a double bass?
In an orchestra, double bass players bow the strings with a wooden bow strung with horsehair, or pluck the strings with their fingers (plucking the strings is called pizzicato). In jazz the double bass is played pizzicato most of the time. However some jazz players use the bow to play melodies on the double bass.
What do you use to play double bass?
Practice both plucking and bowing the strings. A double bass is frequently played both ways. Symphonic music will most often require the bow. Other musical forms, especially jazz and rockabilly, make use of plucking the strings. It’s a good idea to become familiar with both styles of playing.
What is the difference between the bass and double bass?
One of the main differences between the cello and the double bass is its tuning. A cello is typically tuned in 5ths from low to high (C, G, D, and A), while basses are turned in 4ths (E, A, D, and G), with the low E being lower than the cello C. Although it is possible to tune a cello in fourths and a double bass in fifths, it is almost never done.
What are double bass compositions famous?
The following is a non-exhaustive list of notable compositions for the double bass . Romanza: Une bouche aimeé, for soprano, double bass and piano Terzetto: Tutto che il mondo serra (transcription of Etude No.19 in C-sharp minor, Op.25/7 by Chopin) for soprano, double bass and piano Concerto for Double Bass and a cappella choir (Romeo and Juliet)