Double Bass. Where to start?

[Zuhzuhzombie!!]

I play electric guitar and bass, but consider myself a bass player and would really like to be bassist and would like to pick up and learn upright.

Where to start? What's a good beginner model? 3/4 or full size? I'm 6'3". Any tips on how to get started? Any interesting bass players to learn some licks from?

[Plays_For_Dog]

I started out on DB 18 years ago and took 3 years of lessons before switching over to electric bass and only fooling around on a DB whenever I came across them.

LESSONS!!! Learning proper techique is paramount. Way more so then with the electric. You probably won't need very many since you probably already know your notes and scales. Just take a few to learn proper technique, hand placement, what DB size fits you best, etc. If you're planning learning on how to play with a bow, technique is even more important so you learn how to hold and stroke properly. Even if you do some internet lessons, learn the instrument before you buy one.

Also, DB's are more sensitive to care then a typical electric bass. You have to keep it stored in a classic wood friendly enviroment and take extra caution when going from cold outside to warm inside, humidity, etc.

Best wishes.

[waleross]

+1 on all that you stated. I went to music school for the String Bass over 30 years ago and even if I don't have one now(only Fenders) It made me a complete musician. Yes lessons first, get a teacher to help you acquire a Bass and then its a complete commitment. Things are different today what with the internet,instant access,online lessons etc. but learning is still done the old fashioned way. The way you start off with the String Bass is very important if you want to succeed. Best of luck and of course have fun!

[Jsn]

Originally Posted by Zuhzuhzombie!!

I play electric guitar and bass, but consider myself a bass player and would really like to be bassist and would like to pick up and learn upright.

Where to start? What's a good beginner model? 3/4 or full size? I'm 6'3". Any tips on how to get started? Any interesting bass players to learn some licks from?

Well, you can start by reading as much of these links as possible.

BASS FORUM LINKS (Newbie Links): PLEASE READ BEFORE POSTING NEW TOPICS

Where you go from there depends on where you WANT to go. What kind of music do you want to play? Find a teacher with a solid grounding in it, and take it from there.

A couple of things to keep in mind:

1.) No matter what style of music you want to play, nothing will give you better intonation than practicing with a bow.

2.) You should probably rent a instrument at first, until you learn what's right for you.

Good luck!

[PaulCannon]

Start with a 3/4 size. Full size basses are a rarity.

I'm 6'5" and 3/4 basses are plenty big for me.