Easy Double Bass Playing Tips
The double bass is the largest and lowest pitched string instrument. It’s incredible sound is prevalently shown in ensemble orchestras as well as blue grass country, jazz, tango, and rock ’n’ roll. Double bass playing is quite different from playing a cello and violin and can be quite frustrating to get the hang of. This is mainly due to its size and there are many ways to make this experience easier for you. These tips will definitely put you at rest while you practice playing the double bass.
Use Lighter Strings
If the strings are aggravating you and you can’t get the right tone, try switching to light gauge bass strings. These strings require a lesser amount of pressure and the sound will come out equally as beautiful. Since they are easier to fret each and every note, they are the perfect type of strings for practice. Another thing to realize is that you should lower the strings. This makes it so that they are simpler to push down, although it is quite difficult to accomplish, so you may want to take it to a musical repair specialist.
The Correct Strings
There are different variations of strings for each style of music so you’ll want to switch them for each genre. For example, if you’re wanting to play smooth jazz or classical music, you’ll need specific strings so that your bass playing doesn’t sound confusing. A different set of strings will also improve your playing greatly since they won’t work against you. You will need to change out strings anyway since they tend to get dirty and won’t play as well as they use to.
Practice Makes Perfect
Most professional double bass players have strong calluses on their hands from years of playing the instrument. Calluses on the hands will make it easier to fret and pluck the strings. At first, your hands will tire out, but if you’re determined to be a good double bass player, you should practice daily and develop calluses on both of your hands.
If you’d like to learn more about playing the double bass, contact us and we’ll give you more helpful hints on the matter.