The Double Bassist's Companion to Better Playing Health

Abstract

The world of double bass playing has been marred from its inception with issues of pain and discomfort. Over time stress caused by the size and weight of the instrument creates potential physical problems for the musician. Even with regular physical activity and exercise, without specific knowledge and exercises designed to target crucial musculature elements such as the muscles in the shoulders, lower back, and legs, issues will persist. This document presents the results of a survey of performers of the double bass, appraises common physical issues, and develops a specially designed stretching program that targets and increase flexibility in the muscles that are vital to playing the double bass. The goal is to reduce the potential of physical injury and decreasing the overall physical demands of practicing and performing on the instrument.