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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.

September 4, 2022 by Composers double bass News Pedagogy Sheet Music Solo Music

Character Suite for Contrabass and Piano

Patrick Neher – Character Suite for Contrabass and Piano, (or for Contrabass Solo, or for Contrabass with another bassist accompanying), is the latest title added to ISG Publications’ Premiere Pedagogy Series of innovative compositions for students and teachers.

Written for Cielito de Jesus and her students, this composition explores four “characters” and how to develop musical personality. The four movements can be performed individually or as a group and total approximately 10:00 minutes. The movement titles indicate the characteristics to develop: Foup and Twils (allegro moderato), Under Dripping Palms (andante), Plumb Foup (allegro), and G’mma’s Waltz (allegro). The solo bassist can perform in orchestral or solo tuning, as both piano parts and accompaniment bassist parts come with both tunings. Hear demonstration recordings of Character Suite on Patrick Neher’s personal web page (click the Book Two tab).

Bassists are encourage to study the pieces with a teacher, and the teacher can play the accompaniment bass part or the piano. But these pieces can also be rewarding to perform solo, with no accompaniment. This innovative way of making music provides potential for spontaneous creativity. In fact, the soloist could specify where he/she wants to be accompanied and by whom – the bassist or the pianist. Fun!

The level of skill required to play these pieces is in the moderate to advanced junior high or high school range, but college students and professionals alike will be challenged to be creative with the material. Thus, the four character tunes are oriented toward multi-skill level, they are listenable, and are especially fun to play!

Purchase Patrick Neher’s new Character Suite at our contrabass solos page.

May 7, 2022 by Chamber Music Composers double bass News Pedagogy Sheet Music Solo Music

Findeisen “Nixenreigen Fantasie”

Theodor Albin Findeisen (1881-1936) wrote Nixenreigen Fantasie, for double bass and piano, around 191Findeisen-Portrait0-1912, and the work is his Opus 9. Dr. Robert Matheson, bassist, composer, arranger, and professor has brought this and other works of Findeisen to light in his doctoral thesis.  Dr. Matheson has chosen ISG Publications to disseminate Findeisen’s compositions, that have been out of print or were never published.

Findeisen’s music represents the only compositions for solo double bass from the early twentieth century’s compositional style akin to Richard Strauss or early  Schoenberg. It is rich, full, romantic, and challenging, with full use of chromaticism and counterpoint.

“Nixenreigen” is based on a poem that tells of a musician’s walk home one night through the woods, when met by fairies frolicking about and dancing to his music. To have the double bass play the lead role in this story is quite a feat in itself. The entire range of the instrument is utilized in the composition, and even though the lyricism is beautiful, it is a wonderful technical challenge for any student or professional bassist.

ISG Publications is proud to present this newly published composition.

January 22, 2013 by Chamber Music News Sheet Music Solo Music

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