Double bass · Intermediate
Shifting
Moving up the long neck
Bass shifting follows the Simandl numbered position system. Learn second through fifth position, the thumb position above the body, and how to make smooth, accurate shifts on the longest fingerboard in the orchestra.
Before this module
What this module covers
Introduction to Shifting
Second & Third Position
Thumb Position
Smooth Shifts
What comes next
Planning this part of your learning
- Where should I start with shifting?
- The curriculum places Intonation before this module. Review those topics if they are unfamiliar. The first lesson is “Introduction to Shifting”: Moving up the long bass neck. The order is a study guide, not proof that every learner needs the same pace.
- How long is the shifting module?
- The 4 listed lessons total approximately 48 minutes of material. That estimate describes lesson content, not the practice time needed to become comfortable with moving up the long neck. Revisit one task at a time and use feedback from a teacher where physical technique is involved.
- What can I try here without an account?
- The shifting description, lesson sequence and prerequisite links are public. There is no full worked lesson sample for this module yet. The linked public tools and references are free. A free account includes the complete five-lesson foundation module in each instrument and five lessons in music theory, with saved progress and no expiry. Later lessons require the relevant paid package.
Open this module in Arco
Lessons include the synchronised staff, keyboard, and fingerboard view, recorded double bass playback, and quizzes that track your answers. The complete five-lesson foundation module in each instrument and five music theory lessons are free with an account, including saved progress and no time limit. Later lessons require the relevant paid package. Public samples do not assess physical technique or certify exam readiness.