Double Bass Hi, I'm new to this forum.

[Heuristic]

I've had a double bass for over a decade but have been playing to music sporadically for pleasure. Difficult to think of myself as a musican, especially as I never play with other musicians, so I'm rather someone who just feels a need to be 'involved with the music'. Loads of admiration for all you bassists.
Reading some threads, I too have difficulty maintaining stamina (especially on up-tempo rhythms). Any suggestins appreciated! Thanks

 

[ThumpPlunkJunk]

I've had a double bass for over a decade but have been playing to music sporadically for pleasure. Difficult to think of myself as a musican, especially as I never play with other musicians, so I'm rather someone who just feels a need to be 'involved with the music'. Loads of admiration for all you bassists.
Reading some threads, I too have difficulty maintaining stamina (especially on up-tempo rhythms). Any suggestins appreciated! Thanks

Where do you feel that you lose stamina? In the bowing hand or fingering hand? Also, do you use French or German bow?

And welcome!

 

[Heuristic]

Sorry, i should be clearer, I play pizzicato. My left hand reaches I kind of 'wall' and wants to rest. Occasionally though, I play through it. Once I rest for two minutes I fine again. So my playing always has these interruptions.

 

[fdeck]

First and foremost, you're definitely a musician! And welcome to TalkBass.

It might be good too have somebody take a look at your right hand technique. I know folks who take lessons, but never intend to perform. It's just for pleasure. Also, a teacher can get you started on the bow, which is one way to give your plucking fingers a rest while you are practicing.

 

[ThumpPlunkJunk]

Sorry, i should be clearer, I play pizzicato. My left hand reaches I kind of 'wall' and wants to rest. Occasionally though, I play through it. Once I rest for two minutes I fine again. So my playing always has these interruptions.

I would advise not playing through it.

Also, don't squeeze any harder than you need to. I find that when I practice for a long time, my fingers are really strangling the neck and it will really slow you down.

 

[bass_snake]

Welcome to the forum! I feel the same way about myself. I haven' t really considered myself a real musician yet. It' s the love of music and bass playing specially. That' s why I keep on playing.

Friedrich

 

[Heuristic]

Thanks, I'll try a little less pressure with the left hand. I know my technique is pretty unconventional, as I'm not comfortable pivoting on my thumb behind the neck (just doesn't feel agile enough for me, especially towards the scroll). I also have a habit of using the correct finger but without any support from the preceeding fingers, even just just using my little finger on it's own.

I live in Birmingham UK, and although there is a world class symph orchestra, and school, I have not been able to find a jazz tutor. If anyone has any more suggestions they'll be much appreciated.

Thanks.