Here are some videos explaining the basics of what is meant by an idiodextrous approach to the double bass and discussing the physical and sonic consequences.
For videos of idiodextrous jazz bassists performing, visit their pages here.
VIDEO 1a: Not a Mirror Image
This video explains why playing ‘back-to-front’ is not a mirror image of playing ‘right-handed’ – that would be playing ‘left-handed‘ on a ‘left-handed’ instrument. The most important thing to notice is that in an idiodextrous approach, the order of the strings in relation to the bassist’s body is reversed.
VIDEO 2: External Asymmetry
This video demonstrates the asymmetries of the double bass on the outside.
VIDEO 3: Internal Asymmetry
This video explains the asymmetries of the internal construction features of the double bass.
VIDEO 4: Physical Challenges
This video explains the unique physical consequences of playing idiodextrously. Most of the challenges are because of the reversed string order explained in Videos 1a and 2.
VIDEO 5: Sound Production
This video explains why ididextrous bassists can have a harder time producing a full, deep sound than ‘regular’ bassists. It has a lot to do with the internal asymmetries of the bass (the sound post and bass bar) described in Video 3.
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