Books and Videos:  Play-Along Sets (Book + CD)

Franz Simandl - 30 Etudes with 4 Accompaniment CDs

Manufactured by: Hal Leonard

If you ask, I will always suggest that you start your upright bass adventures by studying with an experienced and schooled teacher. The "Simandl Method" is a very common and well-respected methodology for learning the instrument (with a teacher), and the full method book features Etudes (which are short compositions for solo instrument, intended as exercises) as part of the program.

These etudes can be some of the most important pieces any double bassist will use in their study of the instrument. The etudes cover the technical growth necessary for mastery of the double bass, covering all aspects of performance technique, including: attack, bowing, mordents and trills, intonation, dexterity, legato/marcato, leaps, syncopation, cantilena playing, and more. They present a consistently challenging progression of material, while being full of musical interest.

However, even with "musical interest," practicing the etudes alone in a practice room can be repetitive and dull. But hiring a pianist to accompany your rehearsals isn't exactly practical (or affordable!) Now, all 30 of Franz Simandl's famous etudes are available with full piano accompaniment for your learning and practice pleasure. Additionally, each etude is also performed on the included CD's by bassist Andrew Kohn (former principal bassist of the Harrisburg Symphony and National Chamber Orchestra) so you can hear another player's interpretation and reference it in your studies.

Includes a book containing newly engraved solo parts printed on acid-free ivory paper, as well as four compact discs featuring Mr. Kohn performing each piece - then the accompaniment alone, for your performance.

Note: The Simandl method is not a beginner's "self-study" method, and this Book/CD Set is not designed to replace a teacher! This is, rather, a wonderful rehearsal aid for students already studying with a teacher, or those with a solid lesson background looking for rehearsal material to "take their playing to the next level." If you are looking for a more rudimentary lesson set, please check out our Essential Elements package, linked below in the "related items."

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