Double Bass standing orchestral bassists

[weary gill]

I don't have any names to add to a list, but I've seen a pretty healthy mix of both players that sit and ones that stand. I would say that you should do whatever feels more natural to you and allows you to play more comfortably.

 

[willingtotry]

I'm self taught on all my instruments, and I never taught myself to sit. Sometimes I have to dip a bit to play my low E. I can't raise the height though... maybe sitting would be simpler?

 

[Tom Gale]

It is easier to play standing up than lying down..... Although not as comfortable.
Tom Gale

 

[Steve Freides]

I stand for a very simple reason: I sit too much already, and I imagine most folks here could say the same. Anyone reading this while standing up at their computer?

(I know, you're reading this on your phone on the subway or bus - I used to stand on those, too, even where there were seats available.)

Stand, it's good for you. You can learn to play the bass just fine either way.

-S-

 

[Eric Swanson]

Yes, I stand at my work computer. I used some Hafele brackets that fold and have my double monitors on a counterbalanced arm that moves up or down.

Occasionally, I drop the desk, swing down the monitors, and sit. Mostly I stand...at my work that is.

I am not a prominent orchestral bassist...

I would say that the orchestral bassists I studied with (NY Phil and National Symphony) played both sitting or standing, depending on the size of the ensemble, the venue, and the piece.

There's a great clip from one of the concerts in the Leonard Bernstein "Concerts for Young People" series, where Robert Brennand stands while playing L'Histoire du Soldat (I think it was). Solo bass. Mr. Brennand sounding so beautiful...

 

[Steve Freides]

Duly noted, Eric - now how about the rest of you?



-S-

 

[Jeff Schwartz]

I stand but am considering sitting at least some of the time because it seems easier to play lines that move on and off the extension while seated. I'm surprised I haven't seen this discussed on this thread. Seems like an important aspect.
(I am not a prominent or professional classical player, so you know...).

 

[coldtrain]

In my section 3 of us stand (incl. the Principal) and 2 sit (incl. the Asst. Principal.) I'm also the only German bow player. I find that my bass just sounds better while standing and I'm better able to get around the instrument. I use a straight endpin with low height and the bass balances fine. I don't use an extension though so I can't comment on that aspect of playing while standing.

I am definitely NOT a prominent orchestral bassist.

 

[Indybass091]

I will not stand for this discussion.

 

[csrund]

And I'm not about to take this sitting down!

 

[Slevage]

But why is it a Stand Up bass?

 

[Tom Gale]

But why is it a Stand Up bass?

Because it never bad mouths you behind your back.....

 

[Steve Freides]

And why's it called a Music Stand if you sit in front of it? You're supposed to stand.

I rest my case (but not by sitting down).

-S-

 

[mcnach]

Does this thread really need the replies by BMason and Les Fret?