{"id":12444,"date":"2023-06-09T23:51:16","date_gmt":"2023-06-10T03:51:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/audioapartment.com\/?p=12444"},"modified":"2023-06-12T01:46:49","modified_gmt":"2023-06-12T05:46:49","slug":"what-is-an-upright-bass","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/audioapartment.com\/instruments-and-equipment\/what-is-an-upright-bass\/","title":{"rendered":"What is an Upright Bass? Exploring the Depths of this Mighty String Instrument"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Have you ever wondered about the backbone of the modern orchestra? What mysterious depths lie within the commanding presence of an upright bass? Join me on a journey as we unravel the mysterious world of this mighty double bass<\/strong>, exploring its rich history, unique construction, and captivating playing styles. Get ready to dive into the depths of sound and discover the secrets behind this cherished member of the violin family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is an upright bass?<\/strong> An upright bass, a double bass, or bass fiddle, is the lowest-pitched string instrument in modern orchestras, contributing a deep and resonant foundation to the ensemble. It is a commanding presence and versatile playing styles make it an essential component of the violin family, captivating audiences with its rich, resonant tones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

History of the upright bass<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The history of the upright bass is as captivating as its deep, rumbling tones. So, where did it all begin? Scholars have been debating its exact origins, but one thing’s for sure: the bass has undergone centuries of alterations and distinctions that have shaped its design and dimensions. <\/strong>Early examples of the bass were like funky experiments, tuned in various ways and rocking different numbers of strings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The earliest illustration in the history of the string bass dates from 1516, but written accounts record instances of “viols” as large as a person, and the deep register tuning is notably found first among the viol family. These early instruments were tuned in various ways. It’s either using fourths (unlike many stringed instruments that tune by fifths) or a combination of third and fourth tuning, depending on the instrument itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Research has revealed that as many as 50 different tunings
were used during the string bass’s history.<\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n



However, research has revealed that as many as 50 different tunings were used during the string bass’s history. In fact, until the tuning of the early 20th century basically solidified the E-A-D-G (lowest to highest), many composers and musicians specifically requested notes lower than the low E. Modern tuning is typically either for “solo” playing (which is a whole tone higher: F#-B-E-A), or those mentioned above in “orchestral” tuning.

Early double bass instruments also typically featured various numbers of strings, with some rare examples using up to six, before they were slowly adapted to three or the more commonly used four-string modern instrument. In addition, many early examples included a type of gut fretting created by wrapping gut strings horizontally at various intervals along the fingerboard to generate frets at each semitone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Classification and creation of upright bass<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One of the coolest things about the upright bass is that it refuses to conform. It’s like the rebel of the string instrument world, not bound by a standardized shape or construction. The bass can be classified into two main forms: violin <\/strong>and viol de gamba<\/strong>. Each form has its own unique characteristics, giving the bass a diverse range of appearances and sounds. It’s like having different flavors of ice cream, each with its own distinct taste and texture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Combining these two forms allows for a great deal of personalization when creating this instrument, as well as varied playing advantages. The appearance of the upright bass actually affects its sound. The violin form’s arched back and higher bridge contribute to a brighter and more focused sound, making it perfect for classical and orchestral music<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meanwhile, the viol de gamba form’s larger body and lower bridge result in a deeper and more resonant sound, which is often favored in jazz and solo performances. It’s like different fashion styles influencing your mood and vibe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here is a data table comparing the forms of upright basses, specifically the violin and viol de gamba:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Feature<\/th>Violin Upright Bass<\/th>Viol de Gamba<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Shape<\/td>Violin corners<\/td>Curved sloping shoulders, no corners<\/td><\/tr>
Number of Strings<\/td>Typically four<\/td>Varies, commonly six strings<\/td><\/tr>
Tuning<\/td>Tuned in fourths (E-A-D-G) or fifths (A-D-G-C)<\/td>Held between the legs, played with the bow (arco), or plucked<\/td><\/tr>
Fretted Neck<\/td>Fretless<\/td>Fretted<\/td><\/tr>
Playing Position<\/td>Held between the legs or on a stand, played with the bow (arco) or plucked<\/td>Held between the legs, played with the bow (arco) or plucked<\/td><\/tr>
Sound<\/td>Bright, focused sound<\/td>Softer, less brilliant sound<\/td><\/tr>
Historical Usage<\/td>Developed by the violin family, used in orchestras, jazz, and popular music<\/td>Part of the viol family, used in Renaissance and Baroque chamber music, solo repertoire, and ensemble playing<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>
A data table comparing the forms of upright basses.
<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Playing styles of the upright bass<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The upright bass can be played in various styles<\/strong>, including the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n