Rabbath method

[danengland]

Hi Lynn

I'm a UK bassist. I wanted to ask for some advice on learning the Rabbath method. I use the Laborie endpin and took some lessons in London a couple of years ago from a pupil of Rabbath, but I've since moved out of the area and don't live near any players trained by Rabbath (as far as I'm aware) so I'm trying to teach myself more about it.

What do you recommend for someone trying to learn the principles?

I have the Art of the Bow and Art of the Left hand DVDs. Is George Vance's material a good place to start?

Which books would you recommend? What did you cover in your studies with Francois Rabbath?

Thanks
Dan

 

[bassfacer22]

Unless I missed something, His books would be the next thing..

Just use "search" on google and or the bass websites.. like lemur etc..

Then YOUTUBE videos and basically anything you can find on the internet!

Double Bass, Bows, Strings, Amps, Pickups, Speakers, Sheet Music, Gig Bags, Repair - LemurMusic.com

I only studied Rabbath method for such a short time and a bit ago.. so unfortunately I didn't keep up with it.. however the Books with CD's were very cool.. And All I remember is some spider thumb technique that I think helped me a little in thumb position! ha.

 

[Lynn Seaton]

Hi,
It is easier with some guidance from a teacher, but you certainly can do a lot on your own. Visit the aforementioned teacher again for "check-ups" periodically. That being said, I worked a lot on my own with periodic "check-ups" from other people. I saw performances by Rabbath and his students over the years. Seeing and hearing them in person was very inspiring and helpful to see the technique being applied. For the record, I only took a couple of lessons with Rabbath himself. I did work a lot on his scales and arpeggios from his books. I highly recommend his books as well.
The Vance books are excellent places to start! George worked closely with Rabbath in the creation of those books.
It is remarkable to see and hear the impact this course of study has had on young and experienced players alike at the International Society of Bassists (ISB) conventions. The "Art of…" DVDs are excellent sources of information and add an important element: the visual aid. I also got great benefit from learning some of the pieces from the Rabbath Solos book published by Liben (Frank Proto's publishing company). One can listen to the original recordings and even play along with them. There are videos on YouTube of master Rabbath and his students.
Most bass conventions all over the world (and of course the ISB) will have someone familiar with these methods.

 

[bassfacer22]

Is that "the" Lynn Seaton!! whoa.. @Lynn Seaton that's pretty unreal.. where is your books Lynn!?.. your a master too you know.. forget Rabbatth haha

recommend your books! haha

you need to write down or explain your note choice when soloing and walking.. they are great!

I mean, That was you with Diane Schuur and Count Basie on "I love you Porgy" song right? and the walking on "Caught a Touch of your Love"..

Please explain where you came up with note choices walking on that entire album!!

And Where can I find more arrangements like this!?




Ok sorry no more hijacking this thread..

 

[danengland]

Hi,
It is easier with some guidance from a teacher, but you certainly can do a lot on your own. Visit the aforementioned teacher again for "check-ups" periodically. That being said, I worked a lot on my own with periodic "check-ups" from other people. I saw performances by Rabbath and his students over the years. Seeing and hearing them in person was very inspiring and helpful to see the technique being applied. For the record, I only took a couple of lessons with Rabbath himself. I did work a lot on his scales and arpeggios from his books. I highly recommend his books as well.
The Vance books are excellent places to start! George worked closely with Rabbath in the creation of those books.
It is remarkable to see and hear the impact this course of study has had on young and experienced players alike at the International Society of Bassists (ISB) conventions. The "Art of…" DVDs are excellent sources of information and add an important element: the visual aid. I also got great benefit from learning some of the pieces from the Rabbath Solos book published by Liben (Frank Proto's publishing company). One can listen to the original recordings and even play along with them. There are videos on YouTube of master Rabbath and his students.
Most bass conventions all over the world (and of course the ISB) will have someone familiar with these methods.

Thanks for your reply Lynn, that's very helpful and much appreciated.

Thanks
Dan

 

[wathaet]

Contact someone like Caroline Emery, she will know just about everyone in the UK who is familliar with Rabbath and good at teaching. Get a local teacher and start attending her seminars.