For those interested in playing the double bass, also known as the string bass, there are essential factors to consider before purchasing a bass bow. A bass bow is the instrument used to play the double bass, or the French bass.
Before delving into the details of buying a bass bow, it is crucial to understand what a double bass, or string bass, is. A double bass is a musical instrument commonly used in modern symphony orchestras. It is the lowest-pitched string instrument played with a bow in these orchestras, and its name is derived from a term used historically in orchestral contexts.
In earlier times, the double bass was employed to play the cello part of a specific piece an octave lower, effectively doubling the bass part, hence the name double bass. It has also been called the string bass, upright bass, and contrabass. The upright bass is quite popular today in bluegrass, blues, jazz, and some rock A Finnish music story - Musician Matti Mattila wrote his story for us, a Finnish music story! Please read also his Finnish blog and check his page at LinkedIn. I named this article "A Finnish music story" because through Matti words we can know an exclusive tale about late 70's and 80's of Finnish music. Of course the personal thoughts… ‘n’ roll music styles. However, these genres typically involve plucking the strings rather than using a bow.
If you plan to play orchestral music with your upright bass, a bass bow is an essential piece of equipment you will need. A double or French bass bow requires proper care and maintenance, and there are various grades available for purchase.
Regardless of the type you choose, you should be able to play your piece well. However, a higher-quality bass bow can make playing a piece easier and more impressive. A bass bow is an indispensable tool when performing in an orchestra of any size.
In general, the more you invest in a bass bow, the more successful you will be as a player. Even the best string bass player can falter if their double bass bow fails, which is why it is essential to buy a good one and consider having a spare as well.
You can purchase a bass bow at most major music stores, but be sure to choose a reputable brand before spending your money. It is better to spend a little extra on a bass bow with a solid reputation than on a generic brand with uncertain reliability in critical situations. You can always buy a lower-grade bow as a backup, but your primary French or double bass bow should be well-crafted to ensure excellent sound and performance every time.
You can buy your bass bow online or at a music store. If possible, consider purchasing it in person, as holding and trying it out can help you determine how well it will work for you. However, if you live in an area without a reliable music store, you may have to resort to buying it online and undergo a trial-and-error process to find the perfect one for you.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME
