Double Bass French or German?

[Eupher]

I'm a complete noob at the forum and in playing the bass. (The instrument is ordered, but I don't yet have it.)

I've read the entire thread and particularly appreciate the reference to Contrabass Conversations. I registered there and will begin watching those podcasts, especially the ones indicated for beginners.

Apart from that and the general nature of this thread (Mrs. E says to go German and since she's been playing viola and violin for nigh on 50 years, I'll go with that recommendation), one thing in this thread has not been discussed. It's probably a pedagogical thing, but can anybody provide any sort of history as to how the two basic bow styles came about?

I find it amazing that two countries that are side by side can somehow command the rest of the arco world in the types of bows that are taught and played.

TIA!

 

[MikeCanada]

I assume there are a couple of decent resources out there that will explain this in much much more depth, but the basics are as followed:

"German" or "Underhand" bows come from the gamba/viol family. The modern double bass is in many ways (flat backs, deeper ribs, gamba vs. violin corners, etc.) much more closely related to the viol than the violin family. As such, it makes sense that the bows are similar, or at least held in a similar fashion. Over the years, the bass bow (just like viol and violin family bows) has evolved, but this is where it originated.

"French" or "Overhand" bows have a much more recent history. The modern French bow comes around the time of Bottesini, and he was apparently one of the earliest "activists" for it. The viol family of instruments had largely gone out of fashion, and the bass had largely been adopted as a member if the violin family. As such, it made sense that a "violin family" bow be made for the bass, and the French bow was born.

As for the country of origin, specific dates, widespread adaptation, and why certain countries/regions are considered predominantly German or French bow areas, I'm not entirely sure. I read a great article on transitions between the bows and different tunings, and why certain conservatories decided to use them a couple years ago, (I believe in an ISB publication?) but have since moved a couple of times, and stacks of old bass magazines unfortunately didn't make the cut at the time.

Again, there are much more knowledgeable sources out there than myself. Some of which are likely talkbass contributors. If you want to go down the rabbit hole, you will likely encounter a lot of "because BETTER" bias for either bow, but there are definitely some good history resources out there.

Dig in, and share your findings!

 

[CYSI]

I played German bow for many years and I played standing up. Just recently, after not playing very much for the past 20 years (I started playing in 1967), I bought a new bass (a Shen 100) and decided to get back in the game (I play classical with community orchestras). I re-evaluated everything. I started by playing German and standing while playing. The standing was the first thing I changed. I decided to sit and play. I felt I had better control over the instrument.

I practiced in front of a mirror and was surprised to see the bow not meeting the strings at a right angle. I worked to correct that and my tone improved. But I didn't like the way I had to approach the E string now that I was sitting. I also (and had always) disliked what happens to a German bow when you go to pizz.

A pretty decent French bow had been included in the sale of the bass. I decided to re-evaluate my bow choice. I liked the agility I had now with the French bow and for whatever reason (I can't quite explain) I found my left hand technique improving when I played French. It was not an overnight love affair, however. I was less fatigued in my right hand when using German. I kept alternating - one day French, one day German. In the last 2 months I decided to commit to French. I am glad I can do both, though.

 

[bassadvisor]

I played several years with french bow and the good thing is that you'll have lots of control over the string, more speed,...
My problem and the reason I switched to german is the thumb. The position of the hand is quite difficult to get used at the beginning
and it's very easy to overburden your thumb. German position is more natural but more uncomfortable to play the 4th string. The best is to find
a colleague or a shop that let you try both some days/weeks and then choose.

 

[TopSpinBassist]

I recommend french bow, especially if you are a beginner. It allows for more control and I think it is easier overall. I have always played with a french bow, but I have played with a German bow a little bit, mostly for the comparison. I find it harder to control the bow angle and placement than with a french bow. It really does depend in your preference because you can play with either and both will require work before you master it. I have always been happy with a french bow, and as mentioned earlier, pizzicato while holding the bow I easier when it is overhand, in my opinion.

 

[Jeff Bonny]

The "Physical Symptoms According To Primary Bow Usage" section of this ISB article is interesting.

 

[Steve Freides]

"I played several years with french bow and the good thing is that you'll have lots of control over the string, more speed,...
My problem and the reason I switched to german is the thumb. The position of the hand is quite difficult to get used at the beginning and it's very easy to overburden your thumb. "

I agree it's easier for most people to learn German, but that shouldn't be but one of the deciding factors. The thumb thing just takes time.

-S-

 

[TopSpinBassist]

I agree, it should not be a deciding factor. There is a reason that not everyone uses the same kind if bow. There is not one right answer and one type is not better than the other. Either can be learned. Both overhand and underhand have their advantages, and disadvantages, and which bow works best is different for everyone.