Double Bass Practical Tutorial -- Pieces by Category

Author: Hou Junxia
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-06-28
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 the convenience of 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, orchestral difficult passages, and concert etudes with piano accompaniment.
The Ensemble Section aims to improve sight-reading and practical skills while fostering collaboration and coordination 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 classic works, featuring 18 pieces from different periods and genres. These works showcase the delicate musical language unique to the double bass, providing performers with ample space to enhance their musical literacy and broaden their artistic horizons.
Considering the characteristics of double bass learners in China, the tutor incorporates excellent exercises from various schools (German-Austrian, Czech, French, Russian, Italian, Hungarian, etc.) while adapting notable works from cello, violin, and other instruments to meet diverse needs. Additionally, famous excerpts from operas and symphonies are included in each exercise to integrate technical training with artistic practice, ensuring targeted and effective learning.