F. Simandl: New Method for the Double Bass, Book 1 - Piano Accompaniment Half Position

This audio set provides digital piano accompaniments for the half position in Simandl's New Method for the Double Bass, Book 1, Part 1 (pp. 8-10).

The most important points in the half position are understanding the location and developing a stable hand shape.

In the half position, the first finger (index finger) stops the note a semitone above the open string (for example, on the A string, A sharp/B flat).
From there, form a hand shape in which the distance between the first and second fingers, and between the second and fourth fingers, each represents a semitone. Then learn to place this shape accurately in the correct position. The first step is to clearly recognize this "place" on the fingerboard.

In this position, the distance required to produce a semitone is the widest on the fingerboard. For this reason, the fingers need to be spaced more than in other positions. However, rather than forcing the stretch, it is important to place the fingers accurately while avoiding unnecessary tension. Stabilizing the spacing between the first, second, and fourth fingers is the first challenge. The third finger is used together with the second finger.

Place the thumb gently behind the second finger, and instead of relying only on finger strength, allow the weight of the arm to transfer into the string to produce the sound.

Listen carefully to the resonance of the string as you check your intonation, and aim for a full, stable, and resonant sound along with accurate pitch.

Pitch: A = 442 Hz

Yumiko Hayashi
Studied at Toho Gakuen School of Music (including its advanced program) and participated in the Gary Karr Kamp. A double bassist and educator with professional orchestral and chamber music experience, and a competition adjudicator. Her work integrates intonation, tone production, and physical approach to support efficient and musical development through teaching and educational material design.

Accompaniment created by Mai Fukasawa (Composer)
A graduate of Toho Gakuen College of Music, she earned a Master of Music with distinction from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama (London) and studied film scoring at Berklee College of Music. Her work includes music for NHK programs and awards in international competitions such as the IBLA Grand Prize. Based on her expertise in composition and arrangement, she produces high-quality, precise accompaniment tracks. Member of the Japan Federation of Composers.