Minibassico

The history of the double bass and the minibass

The double bass originated from the violone, which was played during the time of the gamba in the 16th and 17th centuries. Up until around 20 years ago, most “children's basses” were 1/2-sized, meaning that they were suitable for children from the age of about 12. Most had learned cello beforehand or started learning bass in early adolescence. It was only due to the dedication and initiative of some professors and bass teachers that 1/4, 1/8, 1/10, and 1/16-sized basses were developed. The lack of young double bassists and the corresponding teaching material caused the Verband deutscher Musikschulen, in cooperation with the Stiftung Deutsche Jugendmarke to start the Initiative Pro Kontrabass in 2000. While the funds only lasted for two years, many students and teachers became aware of the need for more young bass players through this program. After visiting two national bass camps and later the Bavarian and Baden-Württemberg camps, we at Mastri realized that there was an urgent dire need for affordable children's basses that are easy to play and have a very bassy sound. We commenced a lengthy phase of testing which included innumerable discussions with bass teachers. Many different forms and sizes emerged from these tests and discussions. Since that time, many music schools now own minibasses as part of their range of instruments, and more and more children's bass teachers are being sought. Because a child outgrows a particular size roughly every two years, most parents and some schools rent the instruments. By now, with around 700 rental basses in circulation, we are likely the largest double bass rental company worldwide.