Double bass (jazz) guide

Components

1) Scales and Arpeggios

• All Major scales, one octave. Two Octaves, F Major scale.

2) One Jazz Standard:

• Play Melody for one chorus
• Walking bass quarter note bass line for one or two choruses.
• If possible, Solo for one chorus. Applicant is welcome to provide a backing track. 

3) 12 Bar Blues:

• Play Melody for one chorus
• Walking bass quarter note bass line for one or two choruses.
• If possible, Solo for one chorus. Applicant is welcome to provide a backing track.

4) Short Technical Study. This study can be eight to sixteen bars and can be taken from a method                       book. Suggested sources include but are not limited to:

• F. Simandle:  Method for Double Bass, part 1
• I. Bille:  Method for Double bass, part. 1

5) Sight reading

• To be given at the audition

Examples of Repertoire:

• Blues:  Billie’s Bounce, Tenor Madness, Sonny Moon for Two.
• Jazz Standards:  Autumn Leaves, All the Things You Are, How High the Moon, Solar, Blue Bossa, There Will Never Be Another You, Body and Soul.

Repertoire of an equivalent or more advanced level is encouraged.

You greatly improve your chances of acceptance when you prepare your audition requirements with the guidance of a qualified Jazz Double Bass teacher.  

Need help preparing for your audition? Explore the Vanier Music School.