Essential Double Bass Texts/DVD's?

Leroy La Qua · #1 10-01-2008, 04:22 AM

I have recently purchased my first double bass and am about to start lessons with a local teacher. I am looking at purchasing a few double bass specific texts/dvd's to supplement my lessons and was hoping for some recommendations. I have no classical aspirations and will predominantly be playing jazz and blues.

I already own Ed Friedlands books as well as Ron Carter's Book, Ray Browns methods and Chuck Shers Improvisors Bass Method. At present I am considering purchasing the following also..

The Evolving Bassist Millenium Edition - Rufus Reid
Upright Jazz Bass DVD - Ed Friedland

Any other recommendations? Do I need to get the Simandl books?

Bruce Lindfield · #2 10-01-2008, 04:24 AM

Rufus Reid's DVD is worth having as well as the book!

There are many good DVDs that are worth seeing - too many to mention here - although I would mention Ray Brown with Oscar Peterson and anything with Mingus!

jsbarber · #3 10-01-2008, 06:32 AM

Leroy, the first thing you should do is locate a teacher for some lessons. There is a lot that goes into learning the instrument, and by just using books alone you are really short changing yourself and could end up with injuries. Once you have found a teacher, they will tell you what books you need to buy. If you locate a teacher who doesn't ask you to get a bow, then you may want to look for another teacher. I don't know of any here in town, including the jazz teachers, who would not have you doing extensive bow work. Simandl is the most common method book for beginners. If you hang out on this forum you will constantly see discussion of other methods as well, but many view these as supplemental to the tried and true approach presented in Simandl.

There is nothing new or special about this advice. It has been given here about twice a month for many years... It would be helpful if you would fill out your profile. People on the forum will know a little more about you, and might even be able to recommend teachers in your area.

Jim

Bruce Lindfield · #4 10-01-2008, 07:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Leroy La Qua

I have recently purchased my first double bass and am about to start lessons with a local teacher.

Are people actually reading threads!!??

shadygrove · #5 10-01-2008, 01:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bruce Lindfield

Are people actually reading threads!!??

TBDB FAQs

Q:

A: Get a Teacher

Jim's response is still sound as far as asking your teacher what books he or she recommends and working with the bow, but I couldn't pass up this opportunity to share the DB FAQ's

jsbarber · #6 10-01-2008, 05:23 PM

In my defense, it was 5:32 am when I made that post, and I had not yet had my first cup of coffee. Maybe I should avoid posting until after at least half of the first cup...

Jim

Bass Boy · #7 10-02-2008, 02:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jsbarber

In my defense, it was 5:32 am when I made that post, and I had not yet had my first cup of coffee. Maybe I should avoid posting until after at least half of the first cup...

Jim

Yes, I believe a teacher can help you with this...