Jazz Bass

Abstract

The role of the double bass in any jazz band is fundamental to the success of the whole ensemble. The bass line carries both the rhythm and harmony from beat to beat in a way that establishes both a solid pulse and a clear formal structure that allows all of the other elements of jazz to be meaningfully felt. This chapter is designed to introduce a double bassist to jazz playing. It begins with fundamental information about instrument setup, posture, and technical approaches that allow for full expression unhindered by physical pain and injury. Next, the chapter introduces approaches to learning music and bass lines by ear and presents a progressive sequence of skills that allow a bassist to embellish simple traditional bass lines creatively and personally by understanding root movement and connecting chords with walking iconic bass lines.