Choosing the Right Bach for Bass Guitar Books Without Detuning
For bass guitar enthusiasts looking to explore the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, the dilemma often arises regarding which books to choose. Traditional arrangements of Bach’s cello suites often necessitate some form of detuning, making them less accessible for some players. However, there are compelling alternatives that offer a rich musical experience without the need for detuning.
Understanding the Need for Detuning
Many traditional recordings and arrangements of Bach’s cello suites require players to either detune or transpose certain notes to fit the four-stringed bass guitar. This detuning process can be both challenging and impractical for some, leading to a search for alternatives that maintain authenticity while remaining playable.
The HAL Leonard Bach Cello Suites for Electric Bass
The HAL Leonard Bach Cello Suites for Electric Bass is a widely respected resource that offers arrangements of Bach’s cello suites in both notation and tablature. While this book is highly praised, it does come with a caveat: some pieces may require detuning to play certain notes accurately. This can be an obstacle for those who wish to avoid detuning their instrument.
Alternative Approaches Without Detuning
Fortunately, there are other options available for bass guitarists who wish to explore Bach's compositions without detuning. Here are a couple of suggestions:
Playing Suites 1 and 3 at an Octave Above
An alternative approach is to opt for a digital copy of the cello suites and focus on playing just Suites 1 and 3. These suites offer a fantastic exploration of Bach's musicality and can be performed by simply playing certain notes an octave higher. This method allows you to maintain your regular tuning and still enjoy the complexity and beauty of Bach's compositions.
Starting from the Original Notation
One of the exercises in studying Bach's music is understanding the notation. To achieve this best, it is recommended to start from the original notation. In the case of the cello suites, you can read the bass clef from the original scores. These notes directly correspond to the bass guitar, providing a genuine and authentic experience.
Exploring a Complementary Recording
A Rock Tribute by J.S. Bach Experience is a fantastic live recording that features a friend's band. As a bass player, the releases from this recording can provide valuable insights and interpretations. Additionally, simply reading the bass clef from the original scores can help you find the notes for the bass guitar, enriching your understanding and playing experience.
Conclusion
The search for Bach for bass guitar without the need for detuning can be both fascinating and challenging. However, by exploring options like the HAL Leonard arrangement, focusing on specific suites, and utilizing original notation, bass guitar enthusiasts can explore the works of Bach in a way that suits their playing style and musical preferences. These resources not only provide a rich learning experience but also enhance the authenticity of the performances.
Keywords: Bach for bass guitar, bass guitar books, Bach Cello Suites