Thierry Barbé - The Art of Expression

Interview with Thierry Barbé

In this video, I have the pleasure of meeting one of the classical double bass world's most esteemed artists, Thierry Barbé. Known for his work as a soloist, educator and the Principal Bassist of the Opera de Paris Orchestra, Thierry is someone at the forefront of the French double bass community. As a teacher, he has given masterclasses worldwide and is the Contrabass Professor at National Superior Paris Conservatory. In our discussion, we cover topics including the influence of François Rabbath, playing like the double bass as an extension of yourself, left hand technique, the James Bond exercise, thumb position, bowing, and all things bass gear.

Meeting Thierry in Paris was a real joy for me, as he’s truly one of the bass world’s most passionate exponents of our beloved instrument. I hope you enjoy our discussion and are as inspired as I was!

At the end of the video, we are treated to a moving solo performance of the Allemande from Hans Fryba's Suite im Alten Stil, which you don’t want to miss.

Timecodes

01:09 Expressive orchestral bass playing
02:28 François Rabbath
03:52 Early studies
05:34 Bass as an extension of yourself
06:29 Vibrato
08:47 The James Bond exercise
10:43 Bowing technique
16:18 German bow
20:55 Double Bass and bow maker
27:26 Solo performance

Discussion Links

François Rabbath, Discover Double Bass Interview
Jiří Hudec - Website
Gjorgji Cincievski - Website
Catalin Rotaru - Facebook
Laurent Demeyere Double bass maker - Website
Pascal Ruegger - Website
Carbow Double Bass Bow Maker - Website
Pirastro Evah Pirazzi - Website
Belton End Pin Anchor - Website