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Double Bass Weird question, DB with a pick?

M

moody

Feb 1, 2003
1,412
836
50
Blacktown (sydney) Australia
#1
This is a really weird question.

I have a double bass which I haven't really played and needs some work before it is really playable.

At the same time, I have some pretty bad tedonitis in my right wrist, it is controlled but it limits what I can do. One of the things is that I can play electric bass for hours with a pick, but not more than about a minute finger style. I have no problems with my left hand.

Regardless of whether it will be possible to play or not I will be fixing up this bass - either to play or to sell - but I want to know if anyone has attempted or even considered playing Upright bass with a pick? I know the angle would be a bit weird, but I have played Electic bass in a nearly upright angle and I have found that possible (slightly up the neck though).
 
#5
Not sure if you know how fingerstyle on a BG and fingerstyle on a DB is different? You might be able to get away with very reduced wrist movement playing upright bass in the classic style. Fingers pointing downwards, use the whole arm, pluck with the side of the index finger.

cheers Matthew
 
#7
Matthew Tucker said:
Not sure if you know how fingerstyle on a BG and fingerstyle on a DB is different? You might be able to get away with very reduced wrist movement playing upright bass in the classic style. Fingers pointing downwards, use the whole arm, pluck with the side of the index finger.

cheers Matthew
Click to expand...

I have actually considered that, I really don't know (the bass is a fingerboard and bridge replacement away from being playable so I haven't really done anything with it).
 
#9
I've experimented with a small thumbpick on my forefinger and that might be an option for you. It allows you to play the ub in normal position with the forefinger pointed down. It would be less awkward than a flat pick. You might need to use a pickup or mic to get the volume though.
 
#10
There is much less bend in the wrist playing DB vs BG. I don't think you would have the same problem. You'll know when you get it fixed up. Get a good teacher before giving up. With good technique and good wrist use you might be fine. Personally I would think playing with a pick is going to fall flat. The meat of your finger(s) on the string is probably half the sound (and fun) of DB.
 
#12
Andrew McGregor said:
There is of course another option... just use a bow. Might be a bit weird if you're talking about Jazz, but the style is flexible enough that it could work.
Click to expand...

I have no problem with trying a bow, but I haven't played jazz in years. Currently in an aussie rock covers group doing ACDC/angels/midnight oil/aussie crawl etc. so I don't think it would really fit.
 

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