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The Orchestra / Instruments / Basses

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Introduction to the Double Bass

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The double bass is the largest string instrument in the orchestra and with its warm, deep tones it is often thought of as the supporting the rest of the orchestra. It sometimes comes to the fore with a solo or a particularly prominent part, but mostly it is in the background supporting the harmonies, creating rhythms and adding its rich tone to the overall orchestral mix.

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Bass Range and Tuning Issues

Chris Cowie
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The tuning of the bass obviously affects the range: the standard tuning is G2, D2, A1, E1, but other tunings are sometimes called for.
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Low notes: the C extension extends the range downwards.
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A brief history of double bass tuning.
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About 19th Century 'solo' tuning.
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