If your string instrument of choice is the double bass, there are plenty of things to consider before you get started. Learning to play the double bass requires more thought than, say, the guitar, which happens to be many people’s favorite musical instrument starter.
That said, like guitars, double bass guitars have their fair share of beginner guides written about them. These may include a list of the best double bass for beginners to help get you off to a great start.
Today, we’ll go over some solid points on how to learn the double bass as a beginner, including the ideal age to start learning and how to learn as an adult. We’ll also tackle some important considerations for choosing a double bass in the hope that this makes your journey easier.
When Should a Child Start Learning the Double Bass?
As it is with any musical instrument, a child should only start learning the double bass when he is ready. That may mean starting as young as three or waiting until five or seven years old to get the ball rolling. After all, children may operate on their own calendar, and parents need to respect that.
Should your case be the former, note that a small double bass or 1/16 size instrument should be secured. Then again, it could be better to wait a few more years until your child is at least seven years old, as double bass guitars are among the larger string instruments. At the very least, your little one should physically be able to hold the instrument steady without discomfort and with little to no assistance.
Of course, physical size and age should matter less than actual interest. If your youngster shows an inquisitiveness and eagerness to learn the double bass, that’s when to really consider having them take up some lessons. As you can imagine, progress is likely to be faster if this were the case. Plus, it ensures that the child would actually enjoy learning and not see it as a chore.
Learning the double bass, or any musical instrument, for that matter, shouldn’t be something that’s forced on kids. If they are not interested or don’t consider it fun, let them be. Who knows? In a few years, they may look at things differently.
Can You Start Learning as an Adult?
Fortunately, it’s never too late to learn most things, playing the double bass included. You can take up a musical instrument at any point in your life, whether as a teenager or as a middle-aged person looking for a restart. The passion for playing can strike at any time, and age shouldn’t stop you from heeding that call.
For encouragement, you might want to know that playing a musical instrument may help reverse cognitive decline. So, yes, your aging brains would very much want you to take up the double bass. Even late into your 60s, evidence suggests you can still make something of your journey.
Choosing a Double Bass
Buying a double bass can be overwhelming, as there are thousands to choose from on the market. You can narrow your options down considerably by selecting from only the most reputable manufacturers in the industry.
These recognized guitar makers set up every single one of their double bass guitars for success. Thus, the instruments not only sound great, but they also come in varieties ideal for beginners, seasoned players, or both. Here are other key tips for purchasing a double bass:
Setup Is Key
More than the cost, one should be more concerned about their instrument’s setup than anything else. Your first instrument does not necessarily have to cost a thousand bucks, but it does have to be set up correctly. This will influence its sound more than the price tag.
To Rent or To Buy?
If your little one is showing an interest in playing the double bass, you could look to rent one first to see if the interest lasts. Who knows? He may end up liking the violin or cello more.
Then again, you should aim to purchase the instrument as an adult learner. More often than not, your mind would be set in pursuing the journey, and it would save you more time and money to have your own instrument.
Having your own double bass could also set you up for more efficient learning and faster progress. Just make sure to choose a model appropriate for your skill level. Such is especially crucial for beginners, as it allows them to produce clear and lovely tones that are easier to work with.
Practice Not for Perfection, But for Permanence
Striving for perfection often makes for a headache-inducing journey. That’s because “perfect” very rarely happens. So, don’t practice because “practice makes perfect” but because practice makes permanence.
Acquiring permanence in terms of skills and passion is what helps you navigate the ups and downs of your journey more effectively. It is what keeps you from making the same mistakes twice and enables you to maintain the best habits.
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