The Effect of Three Methods of Supporting the Double Bass on Muscle Tension

Abstract

This study focuses on the effect of three methods of supporting/holding the double (string) bass on muscle tension and performance quality. Although representatives of all three methods of support are accepted as outstanding performers, the choice of which method to teach is usually made because of familiarity rather than individual student characteristics. Forty volunteer double bass students from Indiana University, University of Michigan, Oberlin College, and Eastman School of Music performed the double bass recitative from Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 9. Audio recordings of performances were rated. Muscle tension readings from the left arm, right arm, upper back, and lower back areas were taken using electromyography as the measurement tool. Results suggest nonsignificant differences in both performance quality and muscle tension.