How to Choose a Double Bass Bow
Choosing musical instruments and accessories is one of the most important and personal steps a musician takes. For a double bass player, choosing the right bow comes down to personal preference. Money will pose the main practical barrier, but once you have determined your budget, selecting the best double bass bow relies on your own artistic, creative and musical instincts and preferences as a double bass player.
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Instructions
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Find out whether you require a French or German bow. You will know which you use by the way you hold it: you hold a French bow on the top, similar to a cello bow hold, and you grasp a German bow from below. Ask your teacher or a professional bass player if you have any doubts.
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Set your budget. As with any item you plan to purchase, how much money you have to spend will determine which product you buy. Double bow bass prices range from under $100 to several thousand dollars.
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Browse bows in a musical instrument or specialist string store, rather than buying straightaway online. You cannot buy the right bass bow for you if you haven't seen it and tested it in person.
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Test the bow on a double bass, paying attention to how the weight feels in your hand and how it aids your bowing movement. Double bass bows weigh between 125 and 160 grams; the average 140 grams suits most players best. Ask the seller to confirm the weight for you.
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Check the tightness of the hair when you play. If the hair presses against the stick when playing at a normal pressure and speed, the wood of the bow may be too weak.
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Apply rosin and test the bow again, listening for the sound it makes. You will know by personal preference whether you like the sound.
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Try several different double bass bows, comparing both the sound and the ease with which you can play. Take your time testing the bows, as only playing for a few minutes will give you an accurate idea of how the bow feels for you. You may find the bow requires too much pressure to make a good sound, for example, causing greater exertion on your hand muscles.
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Buy in the store or online when you have chosen a model that feels right for your preferences and has a price within your range.
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