New Directions® For Strings, Double Bass Book 2: Double Bass Method Book

Working through this book feels like solving a musical puzzle with clear rules. Each concept builds logically, and the music itself carries enough personality to keep players engaged rather than bored by endless exercises.

String teachers and directors building a comprehensive bass program from the ground up, or directors already using New Directions for other instruments who want methodical continuity. Students progressing beyond Book 1 need structured technique work that doesn't feel disconnected from actual music.

• Return to the bow control exercises regularly throughout the year, not just at the start. These fundamentals determine tone quality in everything that follows.
• Use the integrated repertoire to reinforce whatever left-hand pattern you're studying that week. Repetition across songs helps concepts stick faster.
• Encourage students to listen for how the bass part interlocks with the other three instruments. Hearing the full texture motivates better intonation and balance.

Pair this with your violin and cello method books if you're scaling up a string program; the parallel approach means full orchestra rehearsals can tackle new concepts together. Use it as your primary instructional resource for sectionals, where bass-specific bow and left-hand work happens away from the full group.

• Tetrachord-based left-hand positioning and finger independence
• Deliberate bow control and tone production
• Reading across the staff with confidence
• Balance and blend when playing alongside other string instruments
• Self-assessment through built-in checkpoints