Basic Double Bass Course

The main objective of the double bass course is to provide students with the ability to play the double bass with confidence, establishing a solid foundation for both double bass and music study in general. The course begins with an introduction to the instrument, familiarizing students with its shape, parts, materials, and the ways that sound can be produced by touching it. Getting comfortable with the bow is also one of the first steps, including exercises to help students hold it correctly. Equally important is an approach to the instrument that promotes good posture and prevents muscle tension or improper alignment in the back and shoulders.

Even very young children can begin their double bass journey through innovative teaching methods that gradually introduce core techniques, including pitch accuracy, left-hand technique and simple bow strokes, while emphasizing sound quality and proper posture.

Many beginners start by renting an instrument, and the School offers a double bass rental service for children at symbolic rates, ensuring instruments are appropriately sized for each student.

All children can learn to play the double bass: those without prior musical experience can opt for Suoninsieme, a two-year program of shared lessons with peers, or individual weekly double bass lessons.

In both formats, students participate in foundational group activities such as the first musical theory course Cantare il solfeggio, where they become familiar with the concepts of sound, silence, duration, and pitch through engaging games that help develop auditory skills, motor coordination, and interaction with peers. They also begin their first ensemble experiences in orchestra, learning to play together in a group setting.

Through simple, enjoyable exercises and imitation, beginners double bass students learn short musical phrases and develop finger coordination on the strings with the left hand and bow control with the right hand. They gradually become familiar with directing, pressing, and controlling the bow speed on the strings. Expression is emphasized from the beginning, using phrasing, dynamics, and tone colors.

As they progress, students also grasp basic music theory concepts such as notation and musical timing, learning to read sheet music. Teachers provide guidance on accessing appropriate learning materials.

Progressing in their study of the double bass, students tackle advanced techniques, including vibrato and various bowing styles, while exploring different fingerboard positions and progressively challenging technical exercises.

Alongside attendance to the double bass lessons, consistent individual practice is key to consolidating their abilities.

As students become more proficient in playing the double bass, they may join youth orchestras and chamber ensembles, such as Orchestra Piccolissimi Musici, Crescendo, Crescendo Molto, and chamber music groups.

As students’ skills increase, they gain access to more interesting and challenging pieces, supported by teachers and encouraged by rewarding ensemble experiences.

Skills are verified through certification exams that allow progression from basic to intermediate and advanced levels of the double bass course. Each level includes complementary courses, such as chamber music and group classes on music history and theory.

By completing the course, students gain the skills to tackle more challenging repertoire, and those who reach an adequate level may audition for academic programs.

Students aged 11 and older may also enroll in a non-curricular double bass course, which does not require certification exams.

Concerts, recitals, and other performance initiatives give double bass students the opportunity to play solo, in small ensembles, and in orchestra settings. Sharing music with a public audience is an essential part of musical development and offers a valuable formative experience for all young musicians.

Before beginning the double bass course, children are encouraged to participate in preparatory programs such as Musicami, a music course for ages 0-6 based on E. Gordon’s Music Learning Theory, and rhythm-choral activities for ages 3-9, to ensure a smoother introduction to the double bass.