Double Bass Haven't Used Bass in Years … Setup? Strings?

[johnvic]

Years ago I bought an upright bass, when I bought it I had the shop do a setup and put new strings on it. That was about 9 years ago. I played it for a few months and then it sat in the corner while I played electric. Lately I've thought about the upright bass so I took it out of the case ( bag ) and played it as well as bowed it. It sounded great, even with no fresh rosin on the bow. So now I'm thinking of taking lessons, probably from a classical teacher.

I'm assuming a setup is a smart idea. Correct?

Do I need to get new strings? They've hardly been used but they have been at full tension for all these years.

 

[KUNGfuSHERIFF]

A teacher will be able to answer those questions and others far better than the Internet can.

 

[Eric Hochberg]

Get it inspected by a good bass luthier or your teacher.

 

[johnvic]

Thanks to both of you. Finding a teacher is the next step, should be easy in NYC.

 

[Eric Hochberg]

Since you're in NYC, I would give Bill Merchant a call to take a look. He's in Manhattan. http://merchantbass.com/acoustic/acoustichome.htm

 

[johnvic]

Thanks. I bought it at the "other" place. But I went to Bill Merchant when I was looking and he was a nice, just didn't have something at a beginner level.

 

[KUNGfuSHERIFF]

Bill took excellent care of me when I was getting started. I'd recommend him without reservation.