The main purpose of this book is to develop the simultaneous use of the voice while playing double bass. A significant number of works in the solo contemporary double bass repertoire (and also a small number of ensemble pieces) incorporate some sort of vocal technique, and this number is constantly growing. These pieces usually contain instructions for interpreting the vocal notation, but never has there been a guide or reference material for how to develop this technique and how to practice these works effectively. This book does NOT train the performer to be a professional opera singer or actor but rather provides only the most fundamental yet essential information required for performing this unique field of repertoire. What's inside: - Using the Voice as a Practice Aid - Vocal Tools and Techniques - Exercises and Etudes - Notation Examples In "Using the Voice as a Practice Aid," this book demonstrates how simple vocalizations can assist one's practice habits. This section also helps develop necessary coordination between using the voice and playing the instrument simultaneously. "Vocal Tools and Techniques" provides fundamental information regarding vocal techniques and methods for a non-vocally trained instrumentalist. This section also includes valuable information for preparing and performing solo double bass-voice repertoire. In "Exercises and Etudes," a series of studies in increasing difficulty divided into three categories (speaking, singing, and phonetics) is introduced to help build and prepare necessary techniques one might find in solo double bass-voice pieces. Finally, "Notation Examples" (also divided into the three aforementioned subsections) serves as a valuable tool not only for performers but also for composers. Short excerpts from several pieces in the repertoire are examined to showcase many ways in which the voice is notated in solo instrumental works.
About the Author: With his double bass in hand, Cody Takács has a ravenous appetite for innovative ideas, surreal sounds, and engaging experiences, those not commonly encountered in conventional concert halls. His performances can range from silly and satirical to sensual and serious and anything in between or beyond! Alliteration aside, he can be found performing solo, chamber music, orchestral, historically informed, Avant Garde, traditional, and even the occasional pop repertoire. He has performed with various ensembles across Europe including the Prisma Strijktrio, Sinfonia Rotterdam, Holland Orkest Combinatie, Promenade Orkest, Symphonie Atlantique, Het Metropole Orkest, MAM. Manufaktur für aktuelle Musik, the Ensemble of the LUCERNE FESTIVAL Alumni, stargaze, and the Hodiernal Quartet, a non-traditional string quartet where he is also a founding member. As a soloist, Cody has previously performed at De Link, the Rotterdam Contemporary Art Fair, Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall, the International Society of Bassists conventions, the Dutch Double Bass Festival, as well as several universities and conservatories across the United States and Europe. He finds great joy in collaborating with numerous young composers, helping to bring their thoughts, ideas, and imagination to life. For more information, please visit: www.codytakacs.com