The Notation of Harmonics for Double Bass: A guide to the orchestral bass parts of Maurice Ravel by Lucas Drew

About the Guide

Although the natural harmonic or overtone series is known to most Double Bass players, the notation of harmonics in orchestral works of Maurice Ravel (1875-1937) is sometimes difficult to interpret.

Generally, Ravel used the diamond-shaped tablature in the bass clef to notate the desired shaped note also occurs below the diamond-shaped note, it points out the string on which the harmonic is to be played. And if a note occurs above the diamond-shaped note, it indicates the pitch of the harmonic. In this connection, however, it must be remembered the Double Bass actually sounds an octave lower than written, regardless of whether the note in question is a harmonic or not.

In addition to this harmonic notation system, Ravel used, at times, the term "sons réels" to indicate the actual pitch of the harmonic to be played. This occurs whenever he wrote the harmonic in the treble rather than the bass clef.

About Lucas Drew

Lucas Drew, after a distinguished career of more than 40 years of teaching and performing, is now Professor Emeritus at the University of Miami Frost School of Music and Principal Double Bass Emeritus of the Florida Philharmonic Orchestra. Also, he is Founder/Artistic Director Emeritus of the Highlands - Cashiers (NC) Chamber Music Festival (1982-1999).

Dr. Drew studied double bass with Allen Warner, Dmitri Shmuklovsky, and Edward Krolick and later, coached with Frederick Zimmermann. He is a graduate of the University of Miami, University of Illinois, and Florida State University. Many of his former students are active in the music profession.