Using double stops and harmonics

[bass element]

while reading sheet music, if the note to be played is an A on the D string, for example, could u do a double stop with A as the root note?

how can u incorporate harmonics into sheet music?

[Matt Ides]

If the sheet music calls for that A, then that is what you should play. Of course if it is a free from or loose situation go ahead and play a double stop.

You could play the 4th and 5th above. The 5th and octave lower. Or throw in a 3rd or 7th. Also yes you could incorporate harmonic A and D.

Yes, there is notation for harmonics.

[Bruce Lindfield]

Originally Posted by bass element

how can u incorporate harmonics into sheet music?

In classical notation, you put a little circle over the notes that are to be played as harmonics .

[johnvice]

Originally Posted by bass element

if the note to be played is an A on the D string, for example, could u do a double stop with A as the root note?

You COULD...as long as you have a good reason to do so.

If the A in question is a quarter note as a passing tone in a walking bass line, it would sound out of place. If you are backing up an A chord then it might sound good to create a fuller sound (you could further embellish this by playing another note in the chord on the G string).

-OR-
If I am playing a hard rock song that involves peddling an E,A, or D at quarter note intervals, I'll often play them in Octaves (i.e. "Runnin with the Devil" by VanHalen or "Crazy Train" by Ozzy Ossbounre)