Double bass, could it be the instrument for you? Read on to find out.

At a glance:

● Unique instrument
● Great to play in a group
● Different musical styles
● Instruments to hire as well as buy

The Lowdown

Double bass, that most imposing of instruments. The daddy of the string section - it is the lowest of the stringed instruments and easily the biggest. Also known as the standup bass, the double bass stands upright on the floor thanks to an endpin, and the player stands behind it, resting the instrument against his or her body to play. It can be played either using a bow or by plucking the strings with your fingers.

The Crowd

Anyone who wants to try something new and has an ear for classical music would really enjoy double bass lessons. A key part of any symphony orchestra and present in most string groups, the double bass is a great way to discover your own musical side and to play in groups with other enthusiasts. But not all double bassists are classical music fans, the instrument knows how to let its hair down as well. Made famous in the jazz world by greats like Charles Mingus and an entertaining member of any rockabilly band, the double bass is a versatile instrument.

The Cost

Most beginners start on a ¾ size instrument, which can be found for around £500 and then size up from there. Beginner bows start at the £70 mark. If you don’t want to lay out that amount before your TasterLab taster, your teacher may have an instrument you can borrow or there are a number of cost effective student rental schemes.  

And Finally...

Just to get you in the mood, here’s rockabilly double bass supremo Lee Rocker with a quick lesson on the double bass.