Double Bass Double bass help for beginner?

[Sam1999]

Hi everyone!
My name's Sam, I'm 15 and I have just started playing double bass.
I am currently getting (free!) lessons at school, on a 3/4 size bass. At home, I have a borrowed 1/2 size at home. This bass has no endpin, and
This is making it even harder to hold.
As well as this, I don't even know how to stand/sit properly (even on a normal bass) on though I've had several lessons... My teacher says I should look it up because I can't seem to get it right...

Can anyone help me with
1) the short bass problem
2) help with holding the bass

Editsorry for all the spelling mistakes, this site is really messing with my keyboard

 

[vin*tone]

I would try and find a stool that puts you at the right height for the smaller bass - you want the nut to be at the same height as your forehead. You won't be able to practice balancing your bass but at least it will allow you to practice proper technique at the right height. Trying to learn while stooping down will prob do more harm than good.

Your teacher says you should look it up????! Your teacher should be helping you!

 

[bassmastan]

Hi Sam, Welcome to Talkbass,
My first bit of advice would be to find a local teacher in your area, even one lesson can make a huge difference. Make sure you record the lesson with video so you can use a mirror to replicate it.
Second, see if you can borrow/take home the 3/4 bass. The 1/2 can hinder your musical growth, I know that if I didnt have playable gear when I started, I probably would have been frustrated and quit. Many time school districts allow students to take instruments home, especially over the summer. If you can take advantage of this. If you're near the Contrabass Shoppe, I would ask them to help you with a teacher, and you could take your half size to them to get a new endpin. Good luck!

 

[TroyK]

A drumstick can be used as an endpin too, if you're in a pinch, it might be worth a try.

 

[Feral Feline]

Hi Sam,
Welcome to TB. You're so lucky to start at such an early age!
Please check out the series "Mr Karr, would you teach me how to drive a double bass": Link Removed
If you look on youtube, you'll find Mr Klinghoffer's videos including how not to hold the double bass, and many more valuable insights into playing the instrument.

After watching the above vid, maybe find the start of the series and watch a few more in their proper order.
If you experience pain, STOP!
Discomfort is one thing, but pain is plainly bad, full stop. Seek advice from a qualified teacher/doctor if you do experience any pain. Not to alarm you, but it is a challenging instrument, that's all.

I wish you the utmost success with this journey upon which you have embarked.

Cheers,
FF

 

[SAlcott]

"Your teacher says you should look it up????! Your teacher should be helping you!"

Time for a teacher who knows something about the double bass.

 

[acook396]

I think it is important to practice on the same size bass you will be performing on. Ask your teacher if you can practice at school during a study hall or before/after school. I don't think you should waste your time on the 1/2 size with no end pin. Sounds like a fast way to get frustrated.