What is an Upright Bass?
The upright bass (also called the double bass, string bass, or contrabass) is the largest and lowest-pitched instrument in the string family. It provides the foundation of rhythm and harmony in orchestras, jazz bands, bluegrass, folk, rockabilly, and even rock music!
Bassists create sound by drawing a bow across the strings (arco) or plucking them (pizzicato). The upright bass is tuned E, A, D, G, one octave lower than the cello, giving it a deep, rich, and resonant tone that supports the entire ensemble.
Unlike other string instruments, bass players often stand or sit on a stool while playing, adjusting the endpin for the right height. It’s a versatile instrument that can groove in jazz, drive a rockabilly beat, or provide the backbone of a symphony.
Some famous bass players include Edgar Meyer, Ray Brown, Charles Mingus, Esperanza Spalding, and Paul Chambers.
Renting an Upright Bass
We offer a Rent-to-Purchase program for upright basses, making it easy to get started while investing in an instrument your child can eventually own. Since basses come in different sizes, younger students often start on a 1/8, 1/4, or 1/2 size bass before moving up to a 3/4 (full size) instrument.
Our rental program ensures they have the right fit at every stage!
🎵 Like-New Upright Bass Rental – A high-quality, professionally inspected bass with minor cosmetic blemishes and fractional sizes available. Budget-friendly, with protection for damage, theft, and maintenance.
- Rent-to-Purchase – Every payment (up to 50% of the retail price, minus tax) goes toward purchasing a brand-new bass of your choice.
💡 Call us anytime, and we’d be happy to explain our Rent-to-Purchase program!
Every student rental includes:
✔ Upright bass, bow, and padded bag or case
✔ Rosin (for bow grip on strings)
✔ Protection coverage (for accidents, theft, and maintenance)
✔ Free school delivery
✔ Easy purchase plans
✔ Legendary Brighton Music Center service!
With flexible plans and expert support, getting started has never been easier. Let’s make music happen! 🎻🎶
Upright Bass Care & Maintenance
A well-maintained bass plays better and lasts longer! Here are some essential supplies and tips for bass care:
✨ Rosin – Applied to the bow hair to create friction and produce a clear sound.
✨ Rock Stop/Endpin Anchor – Prevents the bass from sliding while playing.
✨ Microfiber Cloth – Used to wipe rosin dust and fingerprints off the bass.
✨ Extra Strings – Bass strings last longer than other string instruments, but having a backup set is always a good idea.
✨ Humidity Control – Basses are made of wood, which can expand or shrink with changes in temperature and humidity. Using a case humidifier helps prevent cracks, warping, and tuning issues, especially in dry or fluctuating climates.
✨ Proper Case or Bag – Always store the bass in a padded bag or case when not in use to protect it from damage and temperature changes.
Regular bow rehairing, proper tuning, and careful handling will keep a bass in top shape! Need supplies? We’ve got everything your bassist needs! 🎶
Types of Basses & Step-Up Options
As your child progresses, they may need a bass that matches their growing skills. Most students and professionals play on a 3/4 size bass, which is often considered full size in many ensembles due to its balanced tone and playability. However, some players prefer a 4/4 (full size) bass for its larger body and deeper resonance, especially in orchestral settings.
Basses come in different levels, with differences in materials and craftsmanship:
🎵 Student Basses – Made from laminated wood for durability and affordability. These are great for beginners and young students.
🎵 Intermediate Basses – A step up in quality, often made with a solid carved top and laminated back and sides for improved tone and resonance.
🎵 Professional Basses – Handcrafted from high-quality aged tonewoods, these provide the best tone, projection, and responsiveness. They are designed for serious musicians and advanced students, often featuring custom fittings, expertly carved bridges, and premium strings for peak performance.
If your child is ready to upgrade their bass, we’re here to help! Schedule a demo appointment to try out step-up basses and find the perfect fit. Experience the difference in sound, feel, and performance—because the right bass can make all the difference! 🎶