• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Double Bass Does thrashing around while you play do any good?

Status
Not open for further replies.
Easy there, guys! Mr. Tuneh is one of the most respected bassists in the world. On some instruments (esp woodwinds and violin,) movement is considered necessary in many studios. Ray Brown danced with his bass when the time felt right. Are we critiquing him next? :eyebrow:

Certainly if this sort of thing is forced, there is due criticism to be issued, but some people just feel it, and move accordingly. Especially in chamber music, movement can be very helpful for articulating phrasing and entrances non-verbally.

As always, there's more than one way to play this thing. If you don't like movement, then sit down and don't move. If these sort of videos are bothersome to you, close your eyes.
 
I'll pirouette while doing backflips if it would make me sound that good. I'm not always a fan of what Mr. Tuneh does, but I can't deny that the man can play the bass. I've had teachers encourage movement, and i've had teachers who discouraged any non-essential movement at all, almost statuesque. I think that both "schools" have a point, and the truth is somewhere in the grey area for most people.

On that note, back to my practice room so I can sound that good.

eerbrev
 
Never understood why people get so upset when people move or make faces when they play. If it doesn't take away from the music, do what you want. I personally move a lot when I play with others, it makes everything easier and more musical. Mr. Tuneh is obviously an extreme example, but he's also an extremely good musician. If it bothers you, close your eyes... it is music after all.
 
that looks beyond ridiculous. Say whatever you want about expression, timing, phrasing etc. It is distracting and he would be a greater asset to this group if he would sit down and just play without the immature "show" he is putting on. If you can't play well sitting still like a person with some dignity and sense, you probably can't play very well at all.
 
That kind of movement seems to be a German thing. I'm not terribly familiar with the German schools of playing but I know the old school German players used to move A LOT. Check out old videos of the Berlin Philharmonic. There aren't many people in the Berlin section now that move that way though and the ones that do seem to be more tame.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

Latest posts