118 !!Chapter 6
Example 6-19 Cello open strings.Example 6-20 Cello range.Because of the cello’s size, double stops and chords are more easily
played on open strings.
Double Bass
The double basses, in a classic orchestral setting, usually play the same
part as the celli but sound one octave lower than written. They are actually
the sub-basses of the orchestra. The celli provide the clarity in the sound
since they sound one octave higher. (In popular music, this same tech-
nique is commonly used when programming synthesized bass parts. For
instance, a sub-bass might be doubled an octave higher with a different
bass sound.)
The player holds the instrument while standing and/or sitting on a
high stool. Because the instrument is so large and the bow is relatively
small, the player cannot play legato passages or hold long notes with one
bow stroke. The full, rich sound of pizzicato has made the upright bass
the instrument of choice in traditional jazz ensembles.
Range:Parts are written in the bass clef and sound one octave lower
than written. If notes are written in a high register, the tenor clef and treble
clef may be used. It has four open strings, which are tuned in perfect
fourths. The lowest open string is E, one line below the bass clef, followed
by A, D, and G. The highest note is B-flat, located on the third line of the
treble clef. Most concert double basses have a low C string (see examples
6-21 and 6-22).
Example 6-21 Double bass open strings.