In the vast world of musical instruments, the double bass stands tall as a cornerstone of orchestras, jazz bands, and various musical genres. Also known as the contrabass or simply “bass,” this instrument belongs to the violin family, sharing a similar structure and playing technique with its smaller cousins. However, unlike the violin, viola, and cello, the double bass’s sheer size and unique sound make it a distinctive presence in any ensemble.
The question “How tall is a full size double bass?” might seem straightforward, but it opens a door to a fascinating exploration of the instrument’s history, construction, and its role in music. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of the double bass, examining its dimensions, how they affect its sound, and the intricacies of playing this grand instrument.
The History of the Double Bass
The origins of the double bass can be traced back to the early 16th century, where it evolved from the viol family of instruments. Initially, the double bass was used primarily in religious and court music settings. Over time, it became an integral part of orchestras and various ensemble settings, contributing its deep, resonant sound to countless compositions.
Throughout its history, the double bass has undergone several transformations in size, shape, and playing technique. Early models were smaller and had fewer strings, evolving into the modern full-size double bass with four strings tuned to G, D, A, and E.
Understanding the Full Size Double Bass
Now, let’s tackle the main question: how tall is a full size double bass? Typically, a full-size double bass stands between 47 and 52 inches (119 to 132 centimeters) tall. This measurement includes the body of the instrument and the neck, which extends upwards from the body.
The body of the double bass is hollow and made from wood, usually maple or spruce. It consists of a large, rectangular-shaped body with a flat back and curved front. The top of the body, known as the soundboard, is thin and vibrates when the strings are plucked or bowed, producing sound.
The neck of the double bass is long and slender, extending upwards from the body. It has a fingerboard along its length, where the player presses down on the strings to change the pitch. The neck also has a pegbox at its end, where the strings are attached and tuned.
Dimensions and Sound
The dimensions of a full-size double bass play a crucial role in its sound production. The length of the strings and the size of the body affect the instrument’s pitch, volume, and tone.
The longer the strings, the lower the pitch they produce. This is why the double bass has the lowest range of any stringed instrument in a standard orchestra. The deep, resonant sound of the double bass is ideal for creating a rich, full soundscape in orchestras and other ensemble settings.
The size of the body also contributes to the double bass’s sound. The hollow body amplifies the vibrations of the strings, creating a louder and more resonant sound. The shape and material of the body also affect the tone of the instrument, giving it a warm, round sound that is distinct from other stringed instruments.
Varieties of Double Basses
While the full-size double bass is the most common, there are several other varieties of double basses available, each with its own unique dimensions and sound.
Three-Quarter Size Double Bass
A three-quarter size double bass is smaller than a full-size instrument, making it ideal for younger players or those with smaller frames. Despite its smaller size, a three-quarter size double bass produces a full, resonant sound that is similar to a full-size instrument.
Five-String Double Bass
A five-string double bass is similar to a standard four-string instrument but has an additional low C string. This extra string extends the instrument’s range even lower, making it ideal for playing bass lines in jazz and rock music.
Electric Double Bass
An electric double bass, or e-bass, is a modern variant of the traditional instrument. It has a solid body and pickups that amplify the sound of the strings, allowing players to produce a louder sound without the need for a microphone. Electric double basses are popular in rock, jazz, and funk music settings.
Playing the Double Bass
Playing the double bass requires a unique combination of strength, flexibility, and technique. The instrument’s size and weight make it challenging to hold and play, but with practice, players can develop the necessary skills to master this grand instrument.
Holding the Instrument
Players hold the double bass between their legs, with the body resting against their torso and the neck extending upwards. The left hand is used to press down on the strings on the fingerboard, while the right hand is used to pluck or bow the strings.
Bowing Technique
Bowing the double bass involves using a bow to stroke the strings, creating a sustained sound. The bow is held with the right hand, and players use a combination of wrist and arm movements to control the speed and pressure of the stroke.
Plucking Technique
Plucking the double bass involves using the fingers of the right hand to pluck the strings, creating a percussive sound. This technique is commonly used in jazz and rock music settings, where a more rhythmic and dynamic sound is desired.
The Role of the Double Bass in Music
The double bass plays a crucial role in orchestras and other ensemble settings. Its deep, resonant sound provides a solid foundation for the entire ensemble, creating a rich, full soundscape that is essential for many types of music.
Orchestras
In orchestras, the double bass section is responsible for playing the bass line of the composition, providing harmonic support and rhythmic stability. The double bass’s sound is particularly important in symphony orchestras, where it contributes to the overall texture and timbre of the ensemble.
Jazz Bands
In jazz bands, the double bass is often used to play walking bass lines, which provide a rhythmic and harmonic foundation for the ensemble. The instrument’s versatility allows players to improvise and create unique sounds that complement the other instruments in the band.
Rock Bands
In rock bands, the double bass is sometimes replaced by an electric bass guitar, which is easier to play and transport. However, some rock musicians still use the double bass, particularly in genres like folk rock and progressive rock, where its unique sound is valued.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the full-size double bass is a remarkable instrument that has played a pivotal role in music for centuries. Its size, dimensions, and sound make it a distinctive presence in orchestras, jazz bands, and other ensemble settings. Understanding the intricacies of this grand instrument allows us to appreciate its unique contributions to the world of music.
