Bass


 * String Bass **

The **string bass** is the largest and lowest-sounding instrument in the string family. It is so large that it is usually played standing up! It is the harmonic anchor and steady beat-keeper for the orchestra. Like all other instruments in the string family, the bass is hollow and sound is produced by either bowing or plucking the strings. The string bass is the most commonly used string instrument in jazz music as well. Jazz bass players usually pluck the strings to keep a very steady beat.

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Check out a short clip of bassist Edgar Meyer playing music written by J.S. Bach. Listen to the LOW sound of the bass as he plays!

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 * If you are interested in playing a string instrument and like the lowest sound of all, the string bass might be the choice for you
 * If you like the string bass but want to play a higher sounding instrument, perhaps you should look at the cello or the viola.
 * Bass players can begin instruction in 5th grade. Students can either start on another string insturment in 4th grade and then switch or simply start learning the bass from scratch in 5th grade.
 * Trivia: Bows for th bass are constructed in two styles. French bows are held like all other string instruments while German bows are held in an "underhand" grip. This is why bass players may look different than other instruments in videos you may have seen.