Hi, there is very strong evidence about collapsed finger that is contrary to what you mentioned. I am writing a thesis on this technique. Rabbath uses this technique in all of his methods. Also, Renaud Garcia-Fons uses this technique as well. A technique that provides many possibilities when used only in thumb position.
I agree. There are loads of situations where collapsing 1st and 2nd fingers in thumb position can be really useful, especially for awkward string crossings. Also, the anatomy of fingers can be so different between people, so much so that 'rules' like this can really get in the way of people finding the most comfortable and intuitive technique that works for them. There are many world class soloists who collapse first and 2nd fingers ALOT, as well as using some other non-standard left hand techniques
Terrific ideas. Thanks Lauren. I'm studying jazz bass, but am hoping to improve my bowing. I don't have any classical music to play though, so I'll be looking for some good intermediate level pieces to work on.
Lauren, just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate this lesson. I am Very new to playing an upright bass, ( I do not yet have a double bass, I play an EUB). Your tip on Curved vs. Collapsed finger has improved my intonation issues tremendously. Coming from electric bass, I was unaware of the difference this would have in playing on upright. My EUB does not have a curved radius, so bowing is not an option for the moment, but I appreciate all the tips as I know they will be useful when I do get a double bass. Thanks again, have an enjoyable time "down under".
Hi Sean, I also started with an EUB five years ago, a Harley Benton EUB. The bridge was curved but not enough. I rasped 2-3 mm of the bridge away and then could practice with the bow.
I'm really not sure that no. 1 is that black and white. There are so many occasions when collapsing the first and second fingers in thumb position opens up some possibilities, especially with string crossing. The best soloist i've heard collapsed those fingers very regularly. Also, sticking to these rules is not always a great idea when everyones' hands are so different.
I am learning the violin and my arm is killing me. (Left arm) I'm thinking if I change to the Cello or Bass I would not have to hold the instrument up in the air and it would be easier to position. What do you think. What's easier for the muscles (For a beginner) the violin or the Cello/Base?
Tip#5 I'm ok to keep my finger on the board when shifting up, but i find it awkward when shifting down. Especially when i try to shift down while standing. Any tips? Thanks
When you're standing, I think the most common issue is the bass moving while you're trying to shift back. I'm sure Geoff will have a lot better advice on this, but what was helpful for me was finding a balance point on my body where I could let the bass rest as I shifted up and down.
A slur is between two notes like a glissando, but a slur is often a half or whole step, while the glissando is dragged across longer areas. In laymen terms
The idea of tensing with the arm definitely applies to German bows as well. With any bow technique, using the weight of your arm instead of pure force from your muscles gives you more control and a better tone quality overall.
What I do is I slow down the bow in between the two notes and lift the weight slightly. To practice this, start from the bottom note, stop completely, move to the next note, and then play the top note. As you work on this, gradually reduce the space in between the two notes by keeping the bow moving rather than stopping.
Hi Daniel, Lauren's in Melbourne, but she does do Skype teaching. You can message her via this page for the details: www.laurenpiercebass.com/contactme/
Hi Anne, it's Geoff here just jumping in to answer this one as I've actually done a video which addresses this issue. I hope it helps, cheers Geoff th-cam.com/video/-gwJNr7I3R4/w-d-xo.html
Discover Double Bass Thanks Geoff! I didn't even think of that... so the counter force is really your body... makes so much sense :) you guys are the best!
It’s my favorite thing in the world when people decide to flood informational videos with their political views. Like who the fuck cares. If you don’t even play double bass why are you here.
The clarity of your teaching is invaluable and reinforces what I'm learning from my teacher.Being able to repete your lessons helps also.
Hi, there is very strong evidence about collapsed finger that is contrary to what you mentioned. I am writing a thesis on this technique. Rabbath uses this technique in all of his methods. Also, Renaud Garcia-Fons uses this technique as well. A technique that provides many possibilities when used only in thumb position.
I agree. There are loads of situations where collapsing 1st and 2nd fingers in thumb position can be really useful, especially for awkward string crossings. Also, the anatomy of fingers can be so different between people, so much so that 'rules' like this can really get in the way of people finding the most comfortable and intuitive technique that works for them. There are many world class soloists who collapse first and 2nd fingers ALOT, as well as using some other non-standard left hand techniques
Rinat Ibragimov, Dominik Wagner, Marc Andre, Rabbath, Edgar Meyer, Nina Bernat - all great soloists that collapse 1st & 2nd fingers in thumb position
Thank you so much for these tips! Numbers 2 and 5 were exactly what I needed to hear. All the best to you in your new home.
I'm so glad they were helpful! And thank you! :)
Guilty as charged on numbers 4 and 5. Thanks for the helpful video!
Great lesson, Lauren! I need to analyze my playing to see how I'm doing on #5. I feel like I'm good on the others, but great attention to detail!
You know the bass really well. Great lesson.
Very helpful. Thank you! 🎉
thank you!!
Terrific ideas. Thanks Lauren. I'm studying jazz bass, but am hoping to improve my bowing. I don't have any classical music to play though, so I'll be looking for some good intermediate level pieces to work on.
Lauren, just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate this lesson. I am Very new to playing an upright bass, ( I do not yet have a double bass, I play an EUB). Your tip on Curved vs. Collapsed finger has improved my intonation issues tremendously. Coming from electric bass, I was unaware of the difference this would have in playing on upright. My EUB does not have a curved radius, so bowing is not an option for the moment, but I appreciate all the tips as I know they will be useful when I do get a double bass. Thanks again, have an enjoyable time "down under".
Hi Sean, I also started with an EUB five years ago, a Harley Benton EUB. The bridge was curved but not enough. I rasped 2-3 mm of the bridge away and then could practice with the bow.
Toujours un régal Lauren de regarder vos vidéos.
Karl (contrebassiste français amateur)
Great reminders. I think I struggle slightly with squeezing because I play standing up. Great reminder about bow placement, too.
That's totally understandable. It's definitely more difficult to get used to not squeezing when you stand, but not impossible!
Thanks for helping us beginners 😊
Hey Lauren good ideas and the one about not squeezing the thumb did make me think. I will practice with that in mind. Australia looks good on you! B.
Talk to Gary Karr about playing bass with collapsed fingers.
I'm really not sure that no. 1 is that black and white. There are so many occasions when collapsing the first and second fingers in thumb position opens up some possibilities, especially with string crossing. The best soloist i've heard collapsed those fingers very regularly. Also, sticking to these rules is not always a great idea when everyones' hands are so different.
Hey you get two summers in a row! Better than moving down under 6 mo from now!
I know right?! I picked a great time to relocate!
You Moved to Australia... What country did you live before? And what made you choose Australia?
I am learning the violin and my arm is killing me. (Left arm) I'm thinking if I change to the Cello or Bass I would not have to hold the instrument up in the air and it would be easier to position. What do you think. What's easier for the muscles (For a beginner) the violin or the Cello/Base?
I'm not a good speller. But I did change it to Bass because you pointed it out.
Reviews To The Point DEFINITELY violin. basses are 55+ lb and that weight is held upright by your hip area and your arm.
Was that Bach suite at pitch for transposed down an octave?
Tip#5 I'm ok to keep my finger on the board when shifting up, but i find it awkward when shifting down. Especially when i try to shift down while standing. Any tips? Thanks
When you're standing, I think the most common issue is the bass moving while you're trying to shift back. I'm sure Geoff will have a lot better advice on this, but what was helpful for me was finding a balance point on my body where I could let the bass rest as I shifted up and down.
Is there a difference between a Slur and a Glissando?
A slur is between two notes like a glissando, but a slur is often a half or whole step, while the glissando is dragged across longer areas. In laymen terms
with tip #4, does that also apply to German bows?
The idea of tensing with the arm definitely applies to German bows as well. With any bow technique, using the weight of your arm instead of pure force from your muscles gives you more control and a better tone quality overall.
how do you keep your finger planted when shifting without the glissando
What I do is I slow down the bow in between the two notes and lift the weight slightly. To practice this, start from the bottom note, stop completely, move to the next note, and then play the top note. As you work on this, gradually reduce the space in between the two notes by keeping the bow moving rather than stopping.
Did you move to Sydney? I live in Sydney and cannot find a bass teacher. Do you teach? I really enjoy your tutorials. Thank you.
Hi Daniel, Lauren's in Melbourne, but she does do Skype teaching. You can message her via this page for the details: www.laurenpiercebass.com/contactme/
I don't see how you can avoid squeezing with the thumb if you are standing up. There is no counter force to the arm weight.
Hi Anne, it's Geoff here just jumping in to answer this one as I've actually done a video which addresses this issue. I hope it helps, cheers Geoff th-cam.com/video/-gwJNr7I3R4/w-d-xo.html
Discover Double Bass Thanks Geoff! I didn't even think of that... so the counter force is really your body... makes so much sense :) you guys are the best!
My pleasure, I'm glad it helped :-)
Well, THERE'S a solution to Trump as president! #Australia
Well...it is a lot harder for Mexicans to swim across the Pacific to get there illegally
John Peasant Difícil pero no imposible, puñetas
Now if only all of the liberals and fruitcakes would move to Australia
The number for Delta is 1 (800) 221-1212. They have routine flights to Australia.
I'll help you pack.
It’s my favorite thing in the world when people decide to flood informational videos with their political views. Like who the fuck cares. If you don’t even play double bass why are you here.