The double bass, also known as the contrabass or simply bass, is a large string instrument that plays a crucial role in orchestras, jazz bands, and various other musical genres. With its deep, resonant tone, the double bass serves as the foundational instrument in many musical ensembles, providing a rich, low-pitched sound that harmonizes with the other instruments.
But how old is the double bass, and what are its origins? This article aims to provide a detailed and accessible guide to the history of the double bass, focusing on the oldest surviving examples and their significance.
The Origins of the Double Bass
The double bass is a member of the violin family, which originated in Italy during the Renaissance period. While the exact date of the double bass’s invention is uncertain, historians believe it evolved from earlier string instruments, such as the viols, which were popular in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries.
The viols were a family of instruments that included various sizes, ranging from the small treble viol to the large bass viol. The bass viol, which was similar in size and range to the modern double bass, played an important role in Baroque music, particularly in orchestral and chamber works.
The Oldest Surviving Double Basses
Several double basses from the early Baroque period have survived to this day, providing invaluable insights into the instrument’s early development. Here are some of the oldest known double basses:
The Bass Viol by Matteo Goffriller
One of the oldest surviving double basses is a bass viol made by the Venetian luthier Matteo Goffriller in the early 18th century. Goffriller was a renowned instrument maker who produced a wide range of string instruments, including violins, violas, and basses.
The Goffriller bass viol is characterized by its large size, deep tone, and ornate decoration. The instrument features intricate carvings and inlays, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship and artistry that was typical of Venetian instrument makers during this period.
While the Goffriller bass viol is not strictly a modern double bass (it has a slightly different shape and construction), it is closely related to the early double basses that were developed in the following decades.
The “English” Double Bass
Another significant early double bass is the so-called “English” double bass, which is believed to have been made in England or possibly Germany in the late 17th or early 18th century. This instrument is characterized by its distinctive shape and construction, which include a wider body and a longer neck compared to later double basses.
The “English” double bass is notable for its use in English Baroque orchestras and chamber groups. It played a crucial role in the development of Baroque music, particularly in works by composers such as Henry Purcell and John Blow.
The Italian Double Bass
The Italian double bass, which emerged in the mid-18th century, is considered the direct ancestor of the modern double bass. Italian luthiers, such as Giuseppe Guarneri and Antonio Stradivari, were pioneers in the development of this instrument, refining its design and construction to produce a more powerful and versatile sound.
The Italian double bass featured a narrower body and a shorter neck compared to its predecessors, making it easier to play and transport. It also had a more refined tone, with a clearer and more focused sound that was ideal for orchestral and solo performance.
The Evolution of the Double Bass
Over the centuries, the double bass underwent several significant changes and developments. Here are some of the key milestones in its evolution:
The Development of Bowing Technique
During the Baroque period, double bass players primarily used plectrums (small picks) to pluck the strings, producing a bright, percussive sound. However, as music styles evolved and orchestras grew larger, players began to experiment with bowing techniques to produce a smoother, more sustained tone.
By the late 18th century, bowing had become the primary technique for playing the double bass, and players had developed a range of bowing styles and techniques to suit different musical contexts.
The Introduction of the Endpin
Another significant development in the history of the double bass was the introduction of the endpin, a small metal spike that attached to the bottom of the instrument and allowed players to stand up and play while supporting the bass with their leg.
The endpin was a revolutionary innovation that freed players from the constraints of sitting down and made it possible to perform in a wider range of musical settings, including orchestras and jazz bands.
The Expansion of Repertory
As the double bass became more popular and versatile, composers began to write music specifically for the instrument. During the Classical and Romantic periods, many notable composers, such as Beethoven, Brahms, and Dvorak, included double bass parts in their symphonies, chamber works, and solo pieces.
This expansion of repertory led to further developments in double bass technique and performance practice, including the development of new bowing styles, fingerings, and solo repertoire.
Conclusion
The double bass is a rich and diverse instrument with a long and fascinating history. From its origins as a Baroque bass viol to its evolution into the modern double bass, the instrument has played a crucial role in the development of Western music.
While it is impossible to pinpoint the exact oldest double bass, several early examples from the Baroque and early Classical periods have survived to this day, providing invaluable insights into the instrument’s early development.
As music continues to evolve and diversify, the double bass remains an essential part of many musical genres, from classical orchestras to jazz bands and beyond. Its deep, resonant tone and versatile performance capabilities make it a cherished and indispensable instrument for musicians and audiences alike.
