What age can you start double bass lessons?
You need to be at least 110cm tall to start learning the double bass. If you’re still too short, eat lots of protein and veggies, get lots of sleep, and check in again soon. :)
You’re never too old to start playing or to revisit playing the double bass!
Do I need my own double bass?
Yes, you do need an instrument to learn. However, if you are still growing or not sure if the bass is the right instrument for you, it may be more useful to hire than to buy one.
Once you’re up to a ¾ size instrument (see sizing chart below), it’s best to invest in your own instrument.
What size double bass do I need?
This size chart is a general guide only:
your height bass size
110cm – 114cm 1/16
114cm – 127cm 1/10
127cm – 141cm 1/8
141cm – 152 cm 1/4
152cm – 162cm 1/2
162cm up 3/4
What is the difference between German bow and French bow?
French bow is held with the fingers much like a violin or cello bow. French bow beginners struggle to achieve a good hold and even advanced players often develop pain in their right hand and shoulder.
German bow is cupped in the hand with a more comfortable hold. Apart from allowing easier sound production, the position of the hand and arm is more natural and less prone to strain.
Listen to the bass section of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, you’ll be left in no doubt to go German!
How long do I have to enrol for?
To learn to play basic double bass music takes 6 months to 3 years of regular lessons and practice. Beginner students should commit to having lessons for at least two terms to get a sense of whether they want to pursue playing the double bass.
Students who are already learning but want a change of teacher are welcome to book a one-off lesson to see whether they would like to learn with me.
Do I need to practise?
Yes! Without practice you cannot make good progress. The more you practise, the better your skills get, the more music you can play and rewarding it will be.
Absolute beginners need to practise for at least 10 minutes every day soon building up to 30 minutes per day. Advanced students will dedicate 1–2 hours daily to work on their music.
Students wishing to enrol for music exams must commit to practising for at least:
30 min/day for Grades 1–3
45 min/day for Grades 4–6
60 min/day for Grades 7–8
90–120 min/day for diploma exams
How long are lessons?
Regular lessons are offered for 30, 45 or 60 minutes, once or twice per week. One-off lessons can only be booked per hour.
Students who wish to enrol for music exams need to enrol for the following minimum lesson time per week:
45 minutes for Grades 1–3
60 minutes for Grades 4–6
90 minutes for Grades 7–8
120 minutes for Diploma candidates
Do I have to be able to read music?
You don’t need to be able to read music to start playing the double bass. You’ll begin learning this valuable skill as soon as you start having lessons.
Being able to read music is essential for you to be able to learn new songs or pieces independently.
Can I choose the music I learn?
Students are encouraged to nominate pieces they’d like to learn. If these are not suitable, they can be set as goals to strive toward in the future.
I consider students’ preferred genre of music in suggesting suitable pieces for their level but also ensure that they develop the skills to play all styles. This still gives students plenty of choice to find something they like.
What if I’m not enjoying playing anymore?
The first thing to do if you’re not enjoying your lessons or your practice is to talk to me. To enjoy learning to play an instrument, you need to be taking regular lessons and doing regular practice. Particularly during the holidays or very busy periods, it’s easy to let good habits slip and need help to get on track again. Sometimes just starting a new easier piece can make playing fun again.
I’ve never heard anyone say they were glad they stopped having lessons and playing an instrument, only the reverse: that they deeply regretted it. But, happiness aside, scientific evidence has shown that learning to play an instrument is the single-most important thing you can do for the development of your brain!