The double bass has played a part in Western art music for more than 500 years. Double basses can be played with either a bow or fingers, and their low sound has been a favorite of many composers and players alike. Composers such as Mahler, Duke Ellington and even Elvis Presley have all written for, or had in their ensemble, a double bass during their illustrious careers.
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History
The double bass originated in Europe in the 15th century. Originally it had only three strings, which has since evolved to four. Because of its relation to the violin it is often referred to as the "bass violin."
Genres
The double bass is most often used in classical and jazz music, though it can sometimes be found in Western swing, country and rockabilly music.
Features
Double basses have three sections. The body, where the bridge is located; the neck, where the strings are pressed to sound each note; and the scroll, where the tuners are located.
Tuning
The double bass is tuned in fourth intervals, the same as a guitar, to the notes E, A, D and G.
Function
The double bass acts to support the low end of a jazz or classical ensemble. While it is responsible for sounding the harmonic movement of a piece, in jazz it is also responsible for keeping time.
Famous Ties
Bassist Steve Creeggan of the Barenaked Ladies plays the double bass on many of the band's top-selling albums.
