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Recommended Reading
At times, learning an instrument like the double bass can seem like a thankless, wearisome task. Why do other instruments come packaged in appealingly small, attractive and inexpensive cases, while you and I, the bass players, struggle; a fixed expression of physical determination at the bottom of a long flight of stairs or outside rapidly revolving doors. Solitary practice, although very useful for nailing the all-important intonation of the bass, can feel unrewarding due to the sound and nature of the instrument when trapped in a small, low-ceilinged room.
However, if newly acquainted with your ungainly instrument, take heed... buy a large comfortable car (with dual coffee cup holders), a small, yet incredibly useful endpin wheel for your bass, and try to play in as many different ensembles, from orchestras to swing bands, contemporary groups to folk music to experience just how flexible and versatile the double bass really is!
The double bass is the sonic pillar, the musical glue of any ensemble. Would I want to swap my bass for a violin given the chance? Not likely.
For those of you interested in the life of the classical double bass player, I heartily recommend the play The Double Bass written by Patrick Süskind. I recently saw it performed at the New End Theatre in Hampstead.
http://www.thedoublebass.uk.com/The_Double_Bass/The_Double_Bass.html
