Double Bass Progressive Repertoire for the Double Bass

[Enzo]

by George Vance...any opinions on the books? Cheers

 

[Beginner Bass]

I use it, and think it's pretty good. It focuses on the left hand.

 

[Ben Mitchell]

I've played every solo in that book so far, and im in the third book. Its pretty good.

 

[Rastus_01]

I have just started the second book.

I am teacherless due to geography and am just slowly plodding along waiting until each tune sounds musical and clean before moving the next. From a learning point of view, the tunes are self contained and melodic which makes them fun to play and practice. I do have simandl and am slowly working it as well, but it just doesn’t have the fun and musicality of Vance. There is also something positive to be said for starting in the middle of the neck and getting into thumb position early. It does break down any psychological barriers to this fun part of playing.

I imagine the constant changes from Bass to Treble clef would make it harder for students who cannot read music yet. So not sure if Vance will suit a real beginner to music.

As well as the included CD there are midi files available on the net which are good for play alongs, Invalid Link Removed

In reviewing my own progress, the most beneficial things I have found on the upright are: Regular playing with people, Progressive Repertoire, Slow Bow scales (play-along found on the net somewhere) and the Cello Drones.

Cheers
Rastus

 

[Enzo]

I have just started the second book.

I am teacherless due to geography and am just slowly plodding along waiting until each tune sounds musical and clean before moving the next. From a learning point of view, the tunes are self contained and melodic which makes them fun to play and practice. I do have simandl and am slowly working it as well, but it just doesn’t have the fun and musicality of Vance. There is also something positive to be said for starting in the middle of the neck and getting into thumb position early. It does break down any psychological barriers to this fun part of playing.

I imagine the constant changes from Bass to Treble clef would make it harder for students who cannot read music yet. So not sure if Vance will suit a real beginner to music.

As well as the included CD there are midi files available on the net which are good for play alongs, Invalid Link Removed

In reviewing my own progress, the most beneficial things I have found on the upright are: Regular playing with people, Progressive Repertoire, Slow Bow scales (play-along found on the net somewhere) and the Cello Drones.


Thanks, good post and good reference source for when I get the books! BTW - when with people, meaning a communit orchestra or just with people our own level OR all people, as it is all good?

 

[Rastus_01]

Hi

I mainly play UB with my girlfriend (Folk guitarist / singer), but also take all opportunities to play with other muso’s (usually blues swing or whatever) around town in informal situations that pop up.

For myself, familiarity with the neck (intonation) and technique comes directly from this book (PR), the art of playing good bass lines with good tone comes from live interaction with other musicians (usually guitarists and drummers).

I think it is definitely important to play with others, whether it be EB or UB, jazz, blues or orchestral. That's just how it is with this instrument and it's role in music. This is very much a Team Sport

Cheers

EDIT: After writing the above, I just found myself reaching for Simandl. So feel I should recommend having that around as well. When I want to really focus in on something (ie. scales or a technique) Simandl is my go-to book

 

[Enzo]

EDIT: After writing the above, I just found myself reaching for Simandl. So feel I should recommend having that around as well. When I want to really focus in on something (ie. scales or a technique) Simandl is my go-to book[/QUOTE]

Hi there,

I haven't started on the Vance's books (waiting for books to arrive) but thet sound interesting..

As for Simaldl, I have alread stated in another thread just how good I think the book is to get the building blocks right...

Txs for the replies!

 

[Blakewdm]

I used George Vance back in the day! It was a good start for me!