Instruments of the Modern Symphony Orchestra/BASS

by Arthur Edward Johnstone

DOUBLE BASS
(BASS)

Umberto Buldrini
Principal Bass
N.Y. Philharmonic Orchestra

To this instrument are assigned normally the deepest bass parts of the score. Basses are mounted with three, four, or five strings. The four-string variety is most widely used, having almost completely supplanted the three-string instruments. In modern symphony orchestras the five-string bass is making rapid headway, its special advantage being the downward extension of its compass to low (16 foot) C—one octave below the C string of the cello.

As tuning in fifths would be impracticable on this large instrument. A series of fourths is employed in order that scale and passage work may lie more conveniently under the hand. Usually there are two less basses than cellos in symphony and grand opera orchestras.

Parts for the double bass are written an octave above their actual sound in order to avoid the constant use of leger lines below the staff. The bass is thus one of the so-called "transposing instruments" whose pitch differs from its staff representation.

The two lowest strings are wire-spun. The bow is short and sufficiently sturdy to suit the requirements of the heavy strings. The pizzicato is very effective, and the use of the mute is by no means uncommon.

The four-string bass is tuned: (sounds an octave lower)

The range of the bass with all chromatic intervals is:

UMBERTO BULDRINI
PRINCIPAL BASS
N. Y PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA