Ernst Kessler bass, made in Berlin in 1891. It was recently given a full restoration by Nick Lloyd and has a gated C extension from Chris Threlkeld at Heartland String Bass. The bass was made in the Berlin workshop of Ernst Kessler in 1891 and still has the maker's label intact (though relocated during restoration).
This is a really excellent orchestral bass and has been played in professional and festival orchestras. The sound is dark and very full in the low end and blends well in a section while still having great clarity and quality of sound. I've also used it for jazz and musical theater and it's worked very well in that context. See sound samples below to get a sense of the tone.
The pics below are in bright natural light showing the color of the varnish. In less natural light the varnish looks much darker, with less reddish hue. Markers on the fingerboard are stickers and can be removed easily. This bass also comes with a custom fit Messina bag. I’m happy to answer any questions.
Measurements:
String length 41.5”
Body length 44.5”
Width at upper bout 21”
Width at lower bout 26.5”
Rib depth tapers from 7.5” to 9”
Sound samples, thanks to Matt Frischman of Minnesota Orchestra:
This is a really excellent orchestral bass and has been played in professional and festival orchestras. The sound is dark and very full in the low end and blends well in a section while still having great clarity and quality of sound. I've also used it for jazz and musical theater and it's worked very well in that context. See sound samples below to get a sense of the tone.
The pics below are in bright natural light showing the color of the varnish. In less natural light the varnish looks much darker, with less reddish hue. Markers on the fingerboard are stickers and can be removed easily. This bass also comes with a custom fit Messina bag. I’m happy to answer any questions.
Measurements:
String length 41.5”
Body length 44.5”
Width at upper bout 21”
Width at lower bout 26.5”
Rib depth tapers from 7.5” to 9”
Sound samples, thanks to Matt Frischman of Minnesota Orchestra:
