Double Bass Bach Second Suite down a 4th

[SwpBass]

Hey Tbers
I learned the 2nd suite allemande and gigue at pitch that I want to use for grad school auditions. Recently, I heard my friend play them down a 4th and it sounds better (IMO). I started learning them down a 4th, and I think it sounds better already.

Am I shooting myself in the foot by learning them down a 4th? Do audition panels really care if the suites are at pitch? I know when people play the 3rd suite, it's usually played down a 4th. Is it not the same situation for the 2nd suite?

Thanks in advance

 

[MattMinteer]

The second suite is usually played at pitch along with the first suite. If you feel you can play the suite better a fourth down then by all means go for it, it's your audition.

 

[Blakewdm]

Whatever you do, just make sure it shows your ability the best. You might wanna consider learning the second suite at pitch eventually, as that is what most people do, but it could sound good wherever it is pending the player. Also make sure it is not just a few movements that work down ,but the entire piece. The second suite doesn't yield the most perfect audition movements when it comes to an orchestral audition, but then again anything played well is usually worth listening to. Most players for auditions will pick from 1st or 3rd suite for auditions. The 5th suite gigue works well too.