Double Bass

orchestra · string instruments · classical music

Massive String Giant. The double bass is the largest chordophone in a modern symphony orchestra, standing so tall that musicians have to sit on a high stool to play it. Its four or five thick strings can produce incredibly deep, low notes that you feel as much as hear.

Deep, Rumbling Sounds. Because the double bass is so huge compared to violins and violas, it creates the lowest pitches in an orchestra. These deep sounds provide the foundation that helps hold all the other instruments together, like the bass line in music.

Unique Construction. The double bass is built in a way that is between the old-fashioned gamba (or viol) and the modern violin family, making it a special bridge between two different instrument traditions. This unusual design gives it its distinctive look and powerful sound.

Many Names, One Instrument. Musicians call this instrument by lots of different names, including the upright bass, acoustic bass, bull fiddle, bass fiddle, string bass, and contrabass. All of these names refer to the same magnificent instrument, just like how you might have nicknames from different friends.