kontrabassolle

Kontrabassolle is a term sometimes used colloquially to refer to a very large double bass. While there is no official classification for a double bass of this size, it generally implies an instrument significantly larger than the standard 3/4 or 4/4 size. Such instruments may be custom-made or modified from existing basses to achieve a deeper resonance and a more imposing physical presence. The term itself is a portmanteau of "kontrabass" (the German word for double bass) and "olle" (a slang term for something large or impressive).

Playing a kontrabassolle can present unique challenges and advantages. The larger size can make it more difficult to navigate the fingerboard and achieve comfortable playing positions, especially for players of average height. However, the increased body size and air volume can contribute to a richer, more powerful tone with greater sustain. These instruments are often found in specialized orchestral settings or used by performers seeking a distinct sonic and visual impact. The construction of a kontrabassolle typically requires a luthier with expertise in building larger string instruments, as the structural integrity and material choices become more critical with increased dimensions. The exact dimensions that qualify an instrument as a "kontrabassolle" are not standardized and are subject to interpretation and individual perception.