Information on How to Set Up an Upright Bass

Setting up an upright bass is a simple process. However, the instrument is very delicate, and it is important to follow each step correctly so that you do not damage the bass. Setting up the bass includes setting up the bridge, tuning the strings and pulling out the endpin so that you can operate the instrument.

• 1

  Check the placement of the sound post inside the bass. The sound post is a small dowel rod that should sit between the two sides of the bass like a small column. If the sound post is not in place, lay the bass on its side. Slip the tongs through the "F" holes. Pick up the sound post with the tongs. Use both sets of tongs to gently wedge the sound post into position in the middle of the bass between the "F" holes.

• 2

  Pull out the endpin about 18 inches and tighten the screw to hold the endpin in place. Place the endpin on the ground. Hold the bass upright with your back against a corner.

• 3

  Loosen the strings by turning the tuning pins located near the scroll at the top of the base several turns forward. Make sure you are loosening the strings rather than tightening them.

• 4

  Lean the bass against the corner of the wall. Face the front of the bass. Slide the bridge under the strings. Make sure the taller side of the bridge faces the left side of the bass where the fattest strings are located. The smaller side of the bridge should face toward the right.

• 5

  Move the bridge so that it sits halfway between the center of the "F" holes on either side of the bass. Tighten the strings enough to hold the bridge in place. Make sure the strings sit inside the grooves in the top of the bridge.

• 6

  Return to the back of the base. Tighten the tuning pieces to tune the strings to the correct notes. Use a tuning fork or piano to find the correct pitch for each string. The highest note is "G" located on the right side of the bass. From there the notes are "D," "A" and "E."