Fifths tuning


Fifths tuning is a non-standard tuning for the double bass, used primarily in classical, & jazz music. It works well for transcribing pieces w/o having to write them down on paper. In this tuning, the double bass is tuned like a cello but an octave lower.
Although fifths tuning was once the most common double bass tuning in France in the 19th century, standard fourths tuning has since become the most used tuning for the instrument. Fifths has recently been revived by a small but increasing number of bassists, most notably American Red Mitchell and Canadian Joel Quarrington who now is Principal in the London Symphony. Other players who use the tuning include , , , and . Although it used to be uncommon, its popularity is ever increasing.
Its advocates aka the advantages of fifths tuning are:
Even though it's becoming popular again, students learning to play the Double Bass could & should play in this tuning cause they'll have a more manageable range, better intonation, bigger resonance, & they can tune up alot more quickly and easily. When tuning a Double Bass this way, use strings designed for that tuning cause the gauges are very special. Another neat advantage of this tuning is that in thumb position the Bassist can tune with Double stops just like the rest of the string section, alot quicker & easier.