contrabass

The contrabass, also known as the double bass, is the largest and lowest-pitched member of the violin family. It has four strings traditionally tuned to E1, A1, D2, and G2, a fourth below the viola. Some players use a five-string setup that includes a low B string for extended range.

The instrument has a large resonant body typically made of spruce and maple, with an arched top and back, F holes, a long neck, and an endpin. It is normally played upright, either with a bow (arco) or by plucking (pizzicato). Written music for the double bass sounds one octave higher than it sounds, and most parts are read in bass clef (occasionally treble clef for higher passages). The common scale length is around one meter.

Origins lie in early modern Europe, with the double bass developing from earlier viol family instruments. By the 18th and 19th centuries it gained a standard role in orchestras and chamber ensembles. In addition to classical use, the instrument features in jazz, folk, and contemporary genres, where bass lines and rhythmic foundations are common. Noted players include Domenico Dragonetti and Giovanni Bottesini, who expanded technique and repertoire.

Double basses come in several sizes, with 3/4 being the standard size for adults, and 4/4, 1/2, and 7/8 sizes also used. In modern contexts, electric upright and other variants exist. Accessories include bows, cases, mutes, and endpin stops.