Double Bass Simandl 30 etudes

[Andy Mopley]

Does anyone one know what specific technical aspect these actually target (eg string crossing, lyrical playing, pivoting?) I kind have an idea but was wondering if there was any specific source to draw from? Indeed that's where I like the Incredibly Useful Exercises, where the explanation is given for each exercise.
Regards to all

 

[AGCurry]

Each etude has a primary focus. When you have trouble with one of them, that trouble is why you're playing it.

 

[damonsmith]

He also says it in the beginning: The breadth of tone, particularly on the low strings. These really get your low register together.
I would recommend focusing on one for a while rather than tearing through the book.

 

[MrSidecar]

The complete title in German is “30 Etuden … zur Erzielung eines kräftigen Tones und rhythmischer Sicherheit” if memory serves correctly.

That means “to achieve a powerful tone and rhythmic certitude”.

Just like @damonsmith I found them very beneficial for the lower register. And there’s a rather obvious “meaning” to each of them- for example, some drill reading weird key signatures, some focus on particular rhythms, bow retakes… but while I call them obvious, some of these things only became obvious once a teacher pointed them out to me- ymmv of course.

And definitely +1 for taking your time with whatever one you pick instead of speeding through.


best
Sidecar

 

[damonsmith]

They are also great for learning how to put rhythmic drive into an arco whole or half note.

 

[LouisF]

There were stories of a certain Boston Symphony bass teacher back in the day who, if you wanted to study with him, made you audition with No 1 - it had to be in tune, no bow squeaks or scratches, and musical. It could expose every minor weakness in your playing and he would be ruthless in his comments -- and then take you if you saw how much you had to learn. I've been revisiting them the past two years and there are still a couple I skip over, saying, "yep - need to clear 3 or 4 days to tackle that one!"

 

[Andy Mopley]

Thanks all, insightful and helpful as always!