I discovered Xavier Foley’s music on YouTube while returning to the double bass after time away. This time around, I wanted to play something other than Simandl. I appreciate that even Foley’s exercises are written as music, so practice feels musical rather than mechanical.
I first purchased Foley’s exercises and have been working through them regularly. From there, I bought the Solo Book, and I truly appreciate the range of material it offers and the fact that it will continue to be updated with future compositions. That sense of an evolving book makes it feel alive rather than fixed.
At the moment, I am comfortably playing the BASSics and Exercises. The other pieces are more of a stretch, and honestly some are a very big stretch, but I like having something meaningful to work toward. It is motivating to practice with music that invites growth rather than just repetition.
The Solo Book also introduces techniques I am still developing, particularly the extensive use of harmonics. I find this encouraging rather than intimidating, and it gives me clear technical and musical goals.
I think of Xavier Foley as a modern day Bach for the double bass. His music is deeply satisfying to play and to listen to, and it expands what the instrument feels capable of expressing.
I highly recommend this book for beginner through advanced double bassists who want music that challenges and inspires.
