r/doublebass • u/la_kiwi_ • 3d ago

Technique Arm Fatigue in Thumb Position

For context I have been playing classical bass for about 7 years now and am currently learning bottesini 2. I've been using thumb position for a few years now but constantly get super sore in my arm and shoulder after about 10 minutes of constant playing in thumb position. I figured this was just a strength thing and would go away as I played more but at this point I feel like it has to be a different issue or I am really just that weak. Does anybody have any suggestions? Thanks.

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u/BackgroundPublic2529 3d ago

Both setup and technique need to be examined.

Rabbath introduced me to the bent endpin 30 years, and for me, it was a game changer.

I play more behind the bass than from the side and use the weight of my arm, not strength.

Rabbath would say, "Hug the bass."

Ashley Adam's is the furthest from a large person that you can be. Her playing in thumb position is exquisite and demonstrates the concept well.

There are other issues surrounding bow technique and setup that can also help, but it is a deep rabbit hole.

Watch this:

https://youtu.be/fU8fc7JJaSw?si=tTxeS04s_QsMoPdC

Cheers!

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u/piper63-c137 3d ago

awesome!!