Double Bass

The bass is the lowest pitched and largest instrument in the string family.  The bass is only available for 4th and 5th grade students. 3rd grade students interested in playing the bass should consider playing the cello to get used to a large instrument and positioning of the hands. 

Things to consider in choosing to play the string bass: 

• Student is able to demonstrate some dexterity in the left hand, independently moving each finger. The left fingers are used to press the strings to produce different notes while the right hand plucks the strings or uses the bow.

• Student is able to stand or sit on a stool comfortably with the bass

• Reading skills are above average

• Work habits are strong, and achievement is high

• The bass cannot be transported on the bus. The parent and student will be responsible for transporting the bass to and from school on class meeting days. 

Materials needed for the bass will be: 

• Instrument and bow- a student should be correctly sized at a music store.  An incorrectly sized bass can be very uncomfortable and difficult for the student to play. Parents/Guardians may use this guide to size at home. 

  • Common sizes for elementary school students are: 1/4 bass and 1/2. 

  • ***Basses are difficult to rent and SMCPS has a limited number of basses that can be rented. Please contact me and I will send you store information on where to look for rentals. 

• Method Book - Essential Elements for Strings, Book 1. This can be purchased at a music store or ordered online. Make sure the book says Double Bass in the upper right hand corner of the cover. 

• Cleaning cloth

• Rosin-  rosin is made from tree sap.  Synthetic rosin is recommended for students with severe tree nut allergies as a precaution

• Rockstop - a special disk that helps stop the bass endpin from sliding on the floor