Switching to the Double Bass: Introduction

Welcome to the double bass!

Before we get you set up, you first need to know where you can acquire an instrument.

Local bass shops:

• Bob’s House of Basses - I always recommend Bob’s for first-time renters and buyers of student- to intermediate-level basses and bows.

• Brobst Violins - for if you’re in the market for an upgraded bass/bow.

• Thomas Andres Basses/Wolf Instruments - this is Mr. Fowler’s preferred bass shop for any repairs, and Tom also has a good inventory of high quality instruments. It’s a little far away from Montgomery County, but Mr. Fowler trusts Tom and Jacob with any repairs, both major and minor, on his own bass and won’t take it anywhere else.

Local bow shops:

• Rich Maxham - this is where Mr. Fowler brings his bows for rehairs. He works out of the Watergate a few days a week, right across the street from the Kennedy Center, but is based out of Alexandria, VA.

• Phil DaCunha/DC Bows - Phil lives across the river in McLean. Try giving him a call first if he’s not answering his email.

• Violin House of Weaver - ideal for those living near/around Bethesda, MD. Reasonable price for a rehair.

• Bob’s House of Basses - ideal for those who are renting equipment from Bob’s.

Online vendors:

• Gollihur Music - has almost everything you want for bass, whether it be strings, mutes, bow quivers, or sheet music.

• Lemur Music - similar to Gollihur, but go here if Gollihur doesn’t have what you’re looking for or if their prices are lower.

• String Emporium - where Mr. Fowler buys new strings.

• Sweetwater - the Amazon of all things music.

• Double Bass HQ - if Gollihur, Lemur, or String Emporium don’t have the sheet music you’re looking for (or if you’re looking for a digital copy), go here. Also a great resource for informative videos!

What if I need a stool?

1. Check Lemur Music (or any of the sites above) to see if they have the Folding Bass Chair - this will last for years, and since it’s super adjustable (and portable! it folds flat!), it will grow with your student.

2. If the folding bass chair is a little too expensive, try this Padded Shop Stool - it’s very similar to the stools used by the Peabody Bass department, and if three of you band together, you can save on the cost and shipping! Mr. Fowler uses a black one regularly as his gigging stool.