What makes a bass bow a bass bow

[ondaone]

Hi guys

I have seached and searched for the differences between a bass bow a cello violin but can't seem to find anything,

I just bought an upright(stentor 1950) and I want to make sure it has a proper bass bow, I am planning on learning to use it ,

basiclly I bought the set form a store that was not that familiar with this type of instrument, I got a good price and it plays well I just want to make sure I didn't get a cello bow instead of a bass bow, before I devolpe a bad habit due to improper tools for the job.

if I could know some basic sizes lenght, diameter, hair width,
frog size I have a french frog ,


thanks in advance,

jimi

[von buck]

Originally Posted by ondaone

Hi guys

I have seached and searched for the differences between a bass bow a cello violin but can't seem to find anything,
thanks in advance,

jimi

ahhh,
bass = big = big bow

cello = medium= medium bow

violin = small = smaller bow

[ondaone]

Originally Posted by von buck

ahhh,
bass = big = big bow

cello = medium= medium bow

violin = small = smaller bow

How big is big and medium is medium,

my bow is 26 1/2 from end to end with 20, 1/2 of usable hair.

is that a bass Bow or a cello bow?

thanks
jimi

[CPike]

It's likely a bass bow, since cello bows are, size-for-size, longer than bass bows. We can make a more accurate assessment if you post a picture, along with measuring the length, height or width of the frog - and even the diameter of the stick near the frog.

Chris

[fdeck]

Here are cello and bass bows. The most noticeable difference is the heavier proportions of the bass bow. The bass bow stick is roughly 1/2 inch across, the cello bow roughly 3/8. Also note the robustness and nobility of the bass bow.

[ondaone]

Originally Posted by fdeck

Here are cello and bass bows. The most noticeable difference is the heavier proportions of the bass bow. The bass bow stick is roughly 1/2 inch across, the cello bow roughly 3/8. Also note the robustness and nobility of the bass bow.

Thanks you, I have a bass bow, now If I just get use to using it.


thanks
jimi

[Phil Rowan]

Get yourself a good classical teacher (doesn't have to be classical, just as long as they can show you the ropes when it comes to arco playing).

[EggyToast]

If you played with a german grip, this wouldn't even be an issue ;D

[thewhale]

what music store is not familiar with a bass?!?!?!?!

[ransombass]

Natural selection.

[ondaone]

Originally Posted by thewhale

what music store is not familiar with a bass?!?!?!?!

These guys don't really deal with "band" type stuff mostly guitars, electric basses, amps, drums , PA's that kind of stuff , it was just a small place that had the bass I got for a while , some one ordered it put down half the money and never showed up to get it, These guys are decent fellows if you need to know the specs on a 64 stratocaster or a 57 les paul but not as familiar with the classical type instruments

I called around to most of the stores within a four hour drive of me and if it wasn't for this forum and the internet I would have been lost dealling with the stores around me and probly paid way more than I should have. Most of the stores I talked to weren't really familiar with stuff that was outside there product line or area of interest, it was pretty sad,


but I am glad I got you lot to help me out...


cya
jimi

[CPike]

Originally Posted by ondaone

These guys don't really deal with "band" type stuff..

Ahem, "band"? Please, orchestra, not "band"...

Chris

[reedo35]

Bass is great in any ensemble!

[trounsontime]

I have the same bass, and replaced the bow with a Upton one (mostly cos I wanted to play German bow). While the Upton was badly put together and had to be rehaired straight away it was miles better, a nicely balanced stick. Also, that bass is pretty much unplayable without a decent setup and good strings, I'm suprised how great it sounds now though having been 'broken in'.