ABOUT
Introduction
Welcome to The Modern Double Bass! The purpose of this website is two-fold:
What is covered...
This site details the available extended techniques for the double bass. Extended technique in this instance is defined as a technical procedure which is uncommon, often ill-defined and outside the normal technical parameters of typical double bass performance. It is intended that composers can gain an insight into what techniques are available and that instrumentalists can gain an understanding of the technical practices of specific techniques of which they may not be familiar.
What is not covered...
Due to the remit of this site, the following areas are not covered:
However, there is an additional introductory pack which addresses the basics that need to be considered when writing for the instrument. A pitch chart also details what is available (harmonics, multiphonics, etc) for each pitch and can be downloaded from the following links: Repertoire
The repertoire page is currently being compiled and will contain a list of works that include many of the techniques discussed on this site. Works are listed by technique and, where appropriate, contain links that provide either a video or audio recording of the piece in question. The list is not exhaustive and composers who would like their work to be included are invited to get in touch via the contact page. Audio and Video Where appropriate, short video demonstrations accompany technical explanations. Audio examples are close miked and completely untreated. |
Site Layout
Each technique is ordered under an umbrella of associated techniques, for example: the ARCO section deals with all techniques that involve the bow such as ponticello articulations, legno techniques and more extended techniques involving the bow. Technique PagesEach technique, where applicable has its own page in which the technique is explained from a technical perspective for the instrumentalist and additional notes detail its limitations or any other information which may prove useful. The pages are set out in the following ways:
Further information for each chart can be found on the relevant pages.
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