Lauren Pierce: Please Play In Tune: How to Play Double Bass Without Annoying Everyone Around You!

What is Intonation?

When we talk about good intonation, what are we really talking about? Ideally, it's playing right at the center of each pitch, but what goes into being able to do that?

Here’s what I think:

1. Your ear
2. Your technique
3. Your response

I’ll elaborate on each of these concepts throughout the book, but in short, your ear allows you to know what’s in tune, your technique makes it easy to put your fingers down in the right spot, and your response allows you to fix your mistakes in the moment.

Each of the above points has a chapter in this book with exercises to help you strengthen each skill. Some of the exercises might seem boring or pointless or even way too advanced for you, but I encourage you to have an open mind and try them anyway. Something I’ve noticed in my own practice is that the things I’m sure won’t work end up giving me the biggest gifts.

What You'll Receive

A digital copy in PDF format of Please Play in Tune and seven audio files containing MIDI parts for your practice.

The e-book is 125 Pages

Technique Bundle

Select the Technique Bundle, and you'll receive Lauren's collection of technique books: Scales, Scales, Scales! Basstudes & Please Play in Tune, plus a free bonus publication, "Maria" from Westside Story, arranged for a double bass quartet.

A Note From Lauren

Look, I had a bit of an existential crisis while writing this book. And by that, I mean I kind of lost my mind.

In one of my early outlines, I wrote: “Intonation is sort of our question of the meaning of life.”

Thankfully, I eventually got a grip.

Every project is a journey for me, especially the educational ones. Part of my process is going all the way around the world to find the right way for me to approach the teaching of a topic.

Intonation is a foundational part of playing music. It allows us to fully express the emotions and the message of the music. I’m a Sad Girl™ deep down, so all I want to do is express my emotions and be heard.

It’s also a lifelong process that’s never really done. That’s frustrating for someone like me who is impatient and wants to be at the finish line right now. Maybe you’re similar, or maybe you’re one of those people who I aspire to be like that loves and cherishes the journey.

Either way, this book is written in dedication to the lifelong journey that is playing in tune. 

-Lauren Pierce

About Lauren

Lauren Pierce is a double bass soloist originally from Atlanta and relocated to Chicago in 2022. She is one of the highest-viewed classical artists on YouTube, with over 1.5 million views on her channel. She has performed recitals worldwide, and her solo work has been featured in publications such as The Strad and Classic FM. 

Connect with Lauren on YouTube and Instagram.