Practical Tutor for Double Bass. Ensemble Series

Author: Hou Junxia
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-04-01
Features: Practical Tutor for the Double Bass is composed of four sections: Scales, Etudes, Ensemble, and Pieces. Following the principle of progressing from simple to complex, the exercises in each section are interconnected and complementary, forming a complete teaching system.
The Scales Section serves as a foundational for pitch accuracy, tone quality, and rhythmic training. It includes major and minor scales (one to three octaves), chromatic scales, pentatonic scales, various arpeggios, broken chords, intervals, and sequence exercises. For ease of use by students of different levels, fingerings are marked for each note in all exercises for reference.
The Etudes Section focuses on technical training, covering bowing and finger techniques for each position, exercises for various ornaments (appoggiaturas, trills, mordents, tremolos), orchestral techniques (pizzicato, tremolo bowing, near-saddle bowing, near-fretboard bowing, bow, and muting), harmonics, double stops and chord exercises, difficult passages from symphonic music, and concert etudes with piano accompaniment.
The Ensemble Section aims to improve sight-reading and practical performance skills while fostering collaboration between sections. It includes duets, trios, quartets, and sextets. Many of these works are adapted from other instrumental pieces to expose learners to diverse musical styles and textures.
The Pieces Section emphasizes the mastery of musical styles and the exploration of classical works. It features 18 diverse pieces from various periods and genres, showcasing the expressive capabilities of the double bass and providing broad opportunities for players to enhance their musical literacy and artistic perspective.
Considering the characteristics of double bass learners in China, the book incorporates excellent etudes from various schools (German-Austrian, Czech, French, Russian, Italian, Hungarian, etc.) while adapting notable works from cello, violin, and other instruments to enrich the repertoire. Additionally, famous excerpts from operas and symphonies are included in each exercise, integrating technical training with artistic practice for targeted development.