New to the double bass? Congratulations!
You’re probably going to need some gear.
The essentials
Bass, Bow, and Bag
You need a bass! If you haven’t gotten one yet, I highly recommend checking out this post featuring luthiers from some of the world’s best shops. Their contact info is linked up, and they can help you get set up with a bass that’s right for your needs and budget.
You also need a bow (even if you think you don’t!), plus a padded bag to carry your bass around with. These specialty bass shop owners are your best source for these important items.
Instruction
You’ll also want go get some instruction through a private teacher or an online course… or both!
I can provide a private teacher recommendation in your area–just send me an email.
I’m also a big fan of Discover Double Bass… so much, in fact, that I released two courses with them, including one specifically for beginners! Just sayin’…
Accessories
Rosin
You need rosin or your bow won’t play! My favorite rosin is Pop’s, but many people use Kolstein rosin as well. Carlsson is a popular Swedish bass rosin. All of these rosins are fairly soft, which is what I like in a rosin.
Rock Stop
Double bass endpins have a pesky way of slipping out from under you! You’ll need a rock stop to keep from slipping on tile floors and to prevent scuffing wood floors.
Music Stand
You’ll need two music stands: a sturdy one for home, and a portable one for playing outside of the house. My parents bought me a Manhasset music stand when I was starting out, and it still works nearly 30 years later.
Apps
I use Modacity for practicing, Tonal Energy for all kinds of cool things, and Tunable for really getting picky with intonation.
Method Books
I’ve used a ton of materials over the years, but I keep coming back to George Vance’s excellent Progressive Repertoire books. They’re print-only and not cheap, but they’ve been embraced by the double bass community and are highly recommended.
Yoshi Horiguchi has contributed an incredible analysis of the first book of Progressive Repertoire, with video examples from yours truly.
