All about the double bass

From Western classical music to jazz and even the movies – explore the versatility of this biggest of stringed instruments.

The importance of the bow should never be under-estimated. Find out how they’re held and listen to bowing effects from tremolando to train noises.

A look at some of the great double bass instruments of the past, and how the bass developed into what it is today...

Double bass-player Larry Bartley explains why he opts for gut strings rather than metal ones, and outlines the differences between the two types

Larry Bartley demonstrates pizzicato playing, and the famous 'walking bass' sound that has been a feature of jazz and swing since the 1930s.

Larry Bartley explains the measures he can take to prevent his instrument from drying out

Acoustic bass-player Larry Bartley discusses his fingering technique, and stresses the importance of precision in playing

Find out all about the double bass and how to play it.

Larry Barltey started to learn the double bass as an adult. Here he talks about starting out and his career today.