Double Bass Sympathetic Vibrations Two

[jimconklin]

I suppose composers take into account the presence or absence of sympathetic vibrations in the strings section. And, I suppose sympathetic vibrations are less important in an orchestral than in solo or chamber music settings.

As a beginner, I do not have the capability to control these to any extent, and I wonder if experienced players have to do any manipulations to increase or diminish the influence of sypathetic vibrations for particular pieces or types of music.

 

[Andrew McGregor]

If it's going to matter, you'll notice it in practice or rehearsal, and find a spare finger to damp it with. If not, there's nothing to do.

I notice I have lots of habits that lead to frequently damping out the strings when I'm not expecting to make sounds. For example, when I stop, I instantly cover all four strings with my left hand except when I'm wanting something to ring on. When I'm using those neck positions that ring against an open string, I find other fingers touching the open string in question... and I didn't think about that, it just happens.

 

[TroyK]

Since it seems you're going to post a series of these, can I suggest not putting them in the "basses" forum?