Hi guys, once again I am here to 'learn' from the pool of experienced Classical players as well as any others that feel like joining in the discussion.
My first Concert in October '07 will include Beeth. 6th. "The Storm" section moves quite quickly but my main problem/question here is the lower notes between the Low C and Low Eb below the 4-string range.
I am running thru it now with my
Bisiach and its new Extension but as beautiful a job Jeff did I still think a
5-string Bass might be more practical. I would make a bet that in Europe, you would find just about everyone playing the notes down there in this piece would be using a 5er rather than a C-Ext. One hazard is see is tearing the skin off my left hand from the Tuner Gears on the G and D strings reaching across and moving up and down rapidly.
I was hoping to use my newly restored
Hart Bass if it's done by then which is very possible and that will have one of Arnold's Extensions on it but looking at the speed of this 'Storm' I think the 5er might be a better call.
Pros and Cons as I can see it??
Pros:
1) The 5er has a huge sound and I wont have to play as hard to be heard.
2) The 5er is a 41 1/4" string length making it easier to play those fast runs shifting up and down in the Storm.
3) It is not even July yet and I have plenty of time to pick up my 5er from Arnold and start shedding it.
Cons:
1) The 5er has 1" spacing at the Bridge which makes it harder to avoid the neighboring strings as opposed to the 1 1/16" on the 4-string Bass.
2) The Bisiach and Hart are both 42" string length making is slightly longer and more difficult especially in the Lower and Sub Lower positions between the open C-Ext and 2nd Position.
3) The Low 'B' String is used only when needed making the E-String harder to play and confusing all around.
4) Playing the Ext. notes will be nearly impossible to reach and play in tune at the speed of the Storm not to mention dangerous for my knuckles.. 'ouch'!.. Mediccccc........
Ok now you Orchestra guys especially the ones from Europe and you know who you are, what do you suggest I do to pull this off and most importantly. WHY??
