Learning the double bass is a journey. If you're searching for the best books for double bass or wondering how to learn double bass effectively, choosing the right method book could help guide you through the fundamentals and build solid technique. Every student progresses differently, so what works for one person might not work for another. These best double bass method books for beginners and intermediate students have helped countless bassists develop their skills over generations.
Franz Simandl's “New Method”
Franz Simandl's "New Method for the Double Bass" has been the cornerstone of bass education for over 140 years. First published in 1881, this method book remains relevant today for good reason.
Simandl divides the fingerboard into positions using the first, second, and fourth fingers in lower positions. The method teaches systematic finger placement and position work. Volume one covers lower positions, while volume two explores thumb position and advanced techniques.
The approach may feel mechanical to some students. However, the systematic progression helps build reliable intonation and finger strength. Many professional bassists worldwide learned their foundation from Simandl, and most teachers are familiar with this practice.
You should know that Simandl requires patience and consistent practice. The exercises focus on technique rather than musicality. Some students find the etudes dry, but they serve their purpose well for developing fundamental skills.
Progressive Repertoire by George Vance
George Vance's "Progressive Repertoire for the Double Bass" changed how many teachers approach bass education. Published in the late 1980s, this series combines François Rabbath's six-position system with the Suzuki method philosophy.
The books use familiar folk songs and classical pieces instead of technical exercises. Each piece introduces one new concept progressively. Students often connect better with this musical approach compared to traditional etude-based methods.
Vance incorporates Rabbath's pivoting technique and position system. The method introduces higher positions earlier than traditional approaches. This could help students develop comfort with the entire fingerboard sooner.
According to Jason Heath's Double Bass Blog, "the Progressive Repertoire approach is one of the biggest factors for this new level of playing in young bassists." The series has gained significant popularity among teachers who appreciate its musical content and systematic progression.
The Progressive Repertoire works particularly well for younger students. The familiar melodies keep students engaged while building technique. However, some teachers prefer to supplement with additional technical studies.
Other Notable Double Bass Method Books Worth Considering
When exploring double bass books for your musical journey, several other methods deserve consideration alongside the main approaches. These Double Bass Basics resources could help round out your technical and musical development.
Rabbath New Method
François Rabbath's revolutionary approach uses six positions and a pivoting technique. This method challenges traditional fingerboard concepts and offers greater flexibility. Advanced students often benefit from studying Rabbath's principles.
Bille Method
This series has supporters who appreciate its approach to developing technique through musical material. Some European teachers use Bille as a primary method. The method focuses on developing both hands simultaneously through carefully graded exercises. You might find the studies more musical than traditional technical exercises, which could help maintain motivation during practice.
Storch-Hrabe 57 Studies
These etudes provide excellent technical development. They're often used as supplementary material alongside other methods.
Sturm 110 Studies
These melodic etudes might help develop both technique and musicality. Teachers frequently incorporate selected studies from this collection. Sturm wrote these pieces to sound like actual music rather than dry finger exercises. The studies progress gradually in difficulty, so you could work through them systematically or pick individual pieces that target specific technical challenges you want to address.
Rufus Reid's The Evolving Bassist
This comprehensive method bridges classical and jazz approaches. Reid covers fundamental techniques while introducing jazz concepts. The book could serve players interested in exploring both classical and jazz styles.
Ray Brown Bass Method
The legendary jazz bassist Ray Brown created this method to teach both pizzicato and arco techniques. His approach focuses on practical musicianship and could help students develop a well-rounded foundation.
Streicher - My Way of Playing Double Bass
Ludwig Streicher's method presents a European perspective on bass technique. His systematic approach to bowing and left-hand development might appeal to students seeking detailed technical instruction.
Learning Double Bass with a Method Book
No single practice book or music sheet works perfectly for every double bass student. Your physical build, musical background, and learning style all influence which approach might serve you best. Some students thrive with Simandl's systematic approach. Others connect better with Vance's musical content.
The most successful students eventually study material from multiple sources. You might start with Progressive Repertoire for motivation, then add Simandl for systematic finger development. Advanced students often explore Rabbath's concepts for greater technical freedom.
The key is consistent practice with proper guidance. Even the most recommended books for learning the double bass have limitations without good teaching. Consider working with a qualified teacher who understands different approaches and matches them to your needs.
Your Practice Routine
These double bass study materials provide structure, but your daily practice habits matter more than which book you choose. Consistent work on scales, arpeggios, and fundamental bow techniques builds the foundation for musical expression.
You should also supplement method work with repertoire that inspires you. Playing music you love keeps motivation high during challenging technical periods.
Always remember that progress takes time. Professional bassists spend years developing their technique. Some concepts might feel difficult initially, but they become natural with patience and practice.
Working on Your Craft
Once you've established your foundation with a primary method, consider exploring additional resources. Scale systems like Flesch provide advanced technical challenges. Bow studies help develop the right-hand technique. Solo repertoire gives you musical goals to work toward.
The most important factor in your development is regular practice with clear goals. Whether you choose Simandl, Vance, or another approach, commitment to daily practice will determine your progress.
This way of learning inspired me to create “The Exercise Book”. It’s a collection of short, melodic pieces that could make your practice sessions more engaging. These aren't complex concert works. They're accessible exercises designed to be quick to learn yet satisfying to play. Each piece tackles different technical challenges through actual music rather than dry studies.
The collection includes 13 exercises covering everything from large intervals and resonance work to swing rhythms and two-voice playing. Check out The Exercise Book now!