Tag Archives: modern

ColorPoz Method for Contrabass

Patrick Neher ColorPoz Method

Do you want to play the bass really, really well? Are you frustrated with attitudes that make playing the bass difficult? Well, we introduce a simpler, quicker way to learn the double bass: Patrick Neher’s new ColorPoz Method for Contrabass in two volumes is now available. These unique method utilizes colored note heads to designate position and string. Truly the first of its kind, ColorPoz will have you playing in all positions, knowing every pitch on the bass, in “no time!!”

The first book of ColorPoz Method for Contrabass includes studies for 1/2, first, second, and third positions, with an added variation of extended-third. The second book of ColorPoz Method for Contrabass covers positions 4, 4-extended, 5 and 6 (numbering of positions pioneered by François Rabbath). Student and teacher feedback indicates that the colored note head system facilitates their learning of the pitches in every position much better than by the traditional method of indicating position and string with text (i.e. “I, II, III, etc” and “G, D, A, E”). The goal is to learn all the notes and positions, then it is easier to focus on being expressive with the bow and sound control. Though ColorPoz Method for Contrabass focuses on left hand technique and progressively learning the pitches in every position, the method also provides thorough study for all aspects of bass playing, and facilitates development of acute mental-mapping of the fingerboard. ColorPoz Method also provides critical studies that develop pivoting (pivot fingering), with photos and video links.

Book Two example pages

ColorPoz Method for Contrabass is edited by Cielito De Jesus and the techniques taught have received accolades from numerous, prominent teachers of double bass. Now available, Book One is $22 and includes textual instruction, 39 photographs, 12 etudes, and 2 divertimenti. Book 2 is $28 and includes textual instruction, 12 etudes and 1 concert caprice. Both books purchased together are discounted to $45. A web site of videos for every exercise and numerous supplemental videos is provided with free and unlimited access.

Please share your comments about studying ColorPoz Method with Patrick Neher at his web site (patrickneher.com) or use our contact page.

Concerto in D for Viola and Contrabass

Written for and to honor the accomplished career of Scott Slapin, violist, ISG Publications is pleased to announce the New Release of Patrick Neher’s stunningly virtuosic, yet accessible, Concerto in D for Viola and Contrabass with String Orchestra (or Piano). This new concerto for a moderately rare combination of instruments (viola and contrabass duet), is now available in two versions: full orchestra score with soloists and string parts by rental or purchase, and solo parts with piano reduction (see either our viola repertory page or contrabass repertory page). Both the orchestra and piano versions come with a demo recording performed by Scott Slapin, viola, and Patrick Neher, contrabass, with the Bellingham Technical Orchestra strings backing them up.

The piece is playful and energetic with three moderately quick movements, totaling approx. 18 minutes. The level of playing ability required is definitely “Professional” but is a good goal for anyone studying to be a solo violist or bassist (The contrabass part is in regular orchestral tuning. The composer does not recommend solo tuning for this piece, as the harmonic series of the regular open strings is utilized to its potential). Mvt 1 demo. Mvt 2 demo. Mvt 3 demo.

The demo recording can be obtained, gratis, by making an inquiry via our contact page. It will be sent to you via reduced fidelity mp3. Or you can receive a full-fidelity CD in the mail (USA only).

A welcome piece to the viola and bass duet repertory, Patrick Neher’s Concerto in D is an adventurous but enjoyable and rewarding composition with innovative musical development; a truly lyrical modern composition.

NEW RELEASE for Bass Duet

Patrick Neher – April in G for Contrabass Duet

  • Neher - April in G bass duet
    Cover
  • Score and parts

April was supposed to be a beautiful month of creative endeavors, concerts, and flowering trees. Instead it is a bit dreary – never the less, Patrick Neher has composed a wonderfully fun duet for double bass players, April in G. The composition uses the entire range of the bass (of course) and explores passionate lyricism, virtuosic technique, and expansive chordal textures. The piece is truly fun to play and to listen to, but requires a professional skill level of playing (or of those aspiring to be professional).

A challenging and fun new duet for the repertory, April in G is ready to be performed when we start going to concerts again.

Purchase the sheet music (basses in ensembles) here.