double bass

noun

|Updated on: 10 Aug 2018

Definition of double bass

: the largest and lowest-pitched of the stringed instruments that is tuned in fourths

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double bassist

play \-ˈbā-sist\ noun

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Recent Examples of double bass from the Web

The Ogonek calls for a 12-member ensemble of flute, clarinets, percussion, piano, cellos and double bass, whereas the Thorvaldsdottir is written for string quartet, bass flute, bass clarinet, prepared piano and percussion.

— john von rhein, chicagotribune.com, "MusicNOW's resident composers wrap up their tenure with well-received parting gifts," 22 May 2018
His father, Stuart Knussen, was the principal double bass of the London Symphony and a powerful figure in the management of the self-governing orchestra.

— mark swed, latimes.com, "As a conductor, composer and man, Oliver Knussen was larger than life," 10 July 2018
Highlights this year will include tunes from a trio playing uilleann pipes, harp, and double bass, to the contemporary all-string Kirkos Ensemble, the modern jazz songs of Aoife Doyle Music, and R&B soul-pop quartet Super Silly.

— david jefferys, Condé Nast Traveler, "What to Do in Dublin in July 2018," 28 June 2018
Presley, at the beginning of his career, appeared on the show in October 1954 with his backing band, which at the time consisted of just two musicians: Scotty Moore on guitar and Bill Black on double bass.

— kansascity, "In memoriam through June 15: Civil rights activist Dorothy Cotton, Neal Boyd of ‘AGT’," 15 June 2018
The band's heavy sound is known for singer Jesse Leach's growling, angry vocals and quick double bass drums.

— anne nickoloff, cleveland.com, "13 concerts to catch in Cleveland this week: Sofi Tukker, The Dream Syndicate, more," 30 Apr. 2018
The title is a reference to Butthole Surfers’ Jeff Pinkus, who joins Off!/Redd Kross’ bassist Steven McDonald (along with Dale Crover and King Buzzo) for a double bass odyssey.

— courtney devores, charlotteobserver, "8 buzzworthy concerts coming to Charlotte in the next week | Charlotte Observer," 2 May 2018
An especially savvy move was the use of a large double bass rather than the traditional shoulder-slung rock instrument.

— robert ham, Billboard, "Korn's Jonathan Davis Shows His Solo Range With 'Black Labyrinth' Tour Kick-Off," 7 Apr. 2018
There were many vital contributions, notably the cello and double bass solos in the second part; Benjamin Jaber’s beautiful horn work and Renk’s clarinet solos; and the wonderful, spirited ensemble of the entire brass section in the final minutes.

— christian hertzog, sandiegouniontribune.com, "A game of musical chairs and an impressive debut: Scaglione stellar with the San Diego Symphony," 7 Apr. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'double bass.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.