What is the difference between a French and a German bass bow?
The French bow has a smaller frog (the part of the bow you hold) and looks more like the bows you’d use to play cello, viola or violin. It is also held in a similar fashion as with those instruments, with an “overhand” grip. The German bow (aka “Butler”) has a taller frog and is held in an “underhand” grip.
What are the two types of bows that are used by double bass players?
The double bass can be played using two different types of bows. The French or ‘Bottesini’ bow resembles a cello bow but is shorter and heavier. The second type is the German ‘Simandl’ or ‘Butler’ bow.
Does the double bass have the biggest bow?
The Double Bass is a (very) Big Instrument What is this? While most stringed instruments are relatively manageable to hold, the double bass is quite a bit larger. It’s the largest bowed/plucked instrument in an orchestral line-up, meaning there are no bigger instruments that require a bow or finger plucking to play.
Is French or German bow better?
Generally speaking, a lot of students will begin their double bass journey using a French style bow. It is sometimes said to be easier to hold than a German bow. If you’re not sure which style you should use, we recommend visiting us in store at Simply for Strings to trial our selection of handcrafted double bass bows.
How do you hold a French bass bow?
French Bow Hold:
- The French bow hold is similar to the bow hold used by cellists.
- The tip of the bent thumb touches the frog contact point.
- Fingers gently curve over the top of the bow stick.
- Do not let the fourth finger (little finger) rest on top of the bow stick as it does in the violin and viola bow hold.
What makes a good double bass bow?
Compared to the other three, carbon fiber makes double bass bows more robust. On the other hand, Pernambuco and Brazilwood are typically lightweight. Synthetic materials are usually composed of composites and fiberglass. The second thing that you have to consider before purchasing a double bass bow is its weight.
What is the lowest note a double bass can play?
E1
Pitch range The lowest note of a double bass is an E1 (on standard four-string basses) at 41.20 Hz or a B0 (when 5 strings are used) at 30.87 hertz, and the highest notes are almost down at the bridge. In many double bass concertos harmonic tones are used.
How tight should a double bass bow be?
The space between the stick is no more than the thickness of a pencil. – Don’t make it too tight! It makes it harder to play, and can actually break the stick. – If the hair won’t tighten this much, it needs to be shortened or replaced.
How much does a good bass bow cost?
Upright Bass Bows
| Bow Material | French | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Brazilwood with the new Ebontek™ frog! | X | $175 |
| Brazilwood | X | $250 |
| Carbon Fiber | X | $355 |
| Pernambuco with German Silver | X | $775 |
What’s the difference between a French bow and a German bow?
The French bow has a smaller frog (the part of the bow you hold) and looks more like the bows you’d use to play cello, viola or violin. It is also held in a similar fashion as with those instruments, with an “overhand” grip. The German bow (aka “Butler”) has a taller frog and is held in an “underhand” grip.
What is the difference between French and German double bass rosin?
Double bass rosin is also much stickier than for the other stringed instruments. Both French and German styles generally have a similar weight and amount of bow hair, although this can vary between makers. Traditionally, the German bow was longer and broader, with a wider “ribbon” of horsehair. Some makers still adhere to this.
What is the length of a German bass bow?
The German bow is 29 7/8 inches end to end, with about a 22 3/8 inch hair length. Pernambuco Double Bass Bow: A great bow at a great price from the maker of my well-reviewed brazilwood bow – nice Pernambuco sticks with fully lined ebony French or German/Butler frogs, and octagonal Pernambuco sticks.
What’s the difference between a double bass and a cello bow?
As well as having a larger frog, overall the double bass bow is heavier and shorter than a cello bow. This is necessary because of the larger strings. Double bass rosin is also much stickier than for the other stringed instruments.