Bass

About Basses

Basses are low-pitched instruments that support the harmony and provide a rhythmic foundation for musical groups and orchestras. In popular music, the bass guitar is the most common bass instrument type; they are usually electric, fretted and designed to be held and played like guitars. First introduced in the 1930s, the bass guitar typically has four strings that are tuned to E, A, D and G. However, there are 5- and 6-string bass guitars available, and acoustic bass guitars are also made. Two common bass guitars are the Fender Precision and Jazz Bass - these models played essential roles in the development of popular music since the 1950s. Other popular bass guitar brands are Ibanez, Ernie Ball Music Man and PRS.

The double bass is another common type. The largest member of the violin family and lowest-pitched bowed stringed instrument in the modern orchestra, the double bass dates back to 15th-century Europe. It is tuned in fourths (usually E1, A1, D2 and G2) and played while standing. Double basses are also standard members in concert bands and are often found in jazz ensembles and '50s-style rock'n'roll outfits. Student, intermediate and professional double basses are constructed by all of the most respected orchestral string companies, including Engelhardt, Bellafina, Knilling and Silver Creek. When the double bass is played in genres outside of classical music, it is sometimes referred to as an "upright" bass. However, this is not to be confused with the electric upright bass, which is an electronically amplified version of the double bass and has a slim, stripped down body. Popular EUB basses are the Palatino VE0550 and the BSX Bass Allegro.