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Model based on double bass from
c. 1790
John Betts, (London, b. 1752 d. 1823)
String Length 104.5cm (41 *”)
The Instrument
The body length of this particular bass is slightly shorter
than was customary for English makers of the period. The widths
are broad and the middle short and round. The table arching
is fairly flat, but constructed in a Cremonese manner, gently
curved throughout.
The long, elegant, Maggini-esque f-holes and the scroll,
which shows the typical extra half-turn, are particularly
attractive and elongate the contours of the instrument. Light
in colour, the oil varnish with its yellow and orange pigments
lies on a soft golden brown surface and the patina adds a
lot to the darker appearance of this bass.
This instrument has got a dark yet warm sound colour, typical
of the English school of double bass making. Powerful but
not harsh, it is flexible and responds well to different articulations
and styles. I have made a copy of this Betts bass for Neil
Tarlton and it suits him perfectly because the body is wide
without being too long. Currently used as the principal bass
in the Philharmonia Orchestra, it projects wonderfully and
is fantastically playable.
About Betts
John Betts served his apprenticeship under Richard Duke, whose
workshop he later took over and built up into a flourishing
business. Many of the great English violin makers of the early
19th century, such as Vincenzo Panormo, Joseph Hill II and
B. Simon Fendt I and II all passed through Betts’ workshop
before setting up on their own businesses.
Link to article
about John Betts published in the Double Bassist 16, Spring
2001
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