Trouble with starting the notes on the e string when playing chamber music

[Matt chambers]

Hi Patrick,
I'm having trouble getting the notes on the e and a string to start with ease when playing the first movement of brandenburg 1, and pieces like this that require speed and agility in the lower range. This, to me, is very difficult. Is it a matter of using physical force to start the note or is it entirely technique? Or both? My bass has been set up by a well respected local luthier. I play german bow and use pops or carlson. I can usually get the note to sound but it's really hard to play the note (bottom f on e string for example) 'in the string' if you know what I mean. I'm wondering if my hands are just too weak for bass playing and whether the cello might work better for me (love the bass though). I would greatly appreciate any general advice or tips you can give me for playing in the string on the low notes with speed.
Thanks,

Matt

 

[Sam Dingle]

I've been having trouble with the F thing too (jazz bassist learning arco) and the conclusion I've come to is you need to play the E string in a special way and really practice it. I've been doing better and better lately. I'm interested to hear what others say.

 

[PNeher]

I think trouble on the E string is a universal concern of bassists. Realize that because of the large the diameter of the E string, it requires a certain amount of energy, greater than others, to get it to vibrate. It is a slow vibration and cannot be rushed. You will never be able to play as fast, as cleanly, on the E than on the G. As a violinist can always play faster than a cellist or bassist - all things being equal except for the diameters of the strings. So, enjoy the E string for is slow, some say ponderous, reaction to your application of energy. But you must be able to be fast enough for standard repertory - that takes practice, and the E string does take special care. I use a thinner gauge string on the E than most players (Savarez Corelli, vs Pirastro Flat Chrome or Thomastic Spirocore). It is bright and more flexible, and therefore faster, but perhaps not as "punching." I the string type is particularly critical for the E string, and the A too.