[quote name='NDH' post='1038036' date='Nov 26 2010, 05:39 PM']Hi Mike, thanks for posting this - makes me feel better about my struggle to make a good sound with the DB. I play electric bass in a functions band and EUB in a 4 piece [standards, 50's R&B]. I'm on my 5th classical DB lesson using a hired instrument. This bass has huge action which I am now getting used to, but I am looking forward to getting my own instrument and having the set up seen to.
My teacher is very good and will gently remind me about arm poisition, thumb poisition, finger position and my drooping bow, and be very positive if I actually play a phrase correctly. I have found myself struggling over scales that I have been able to play for years. I've been encouraged however, to find that focussed practice really does work and things are geting a bit more conforatble. Arm ache [lieft elbow mostly] tired hands, a bit of back ache all now OK.
I got over using the third finger quite quickly, although I use it lots on the bass guitar. My main target at the moment is to keep my thumb in the right position opposite the second finger. My main irritation is the poor tone I get when I'm concentrating on other things, such as thumb position. This is all down to bow technigue I think.
I was interested that you have bought a stool. I use a kitchen stool having been told that classical players all sit down; I find it quite comfortable but had wondered about getting the real thing.
Good luck with your venture and I'd be interested to hear how you are getting on after a few more lessons.
Nigel[/quote] As afellow novice i can relate to yours and previous posts, and i face the the same problems ie thumb,collapsing hand etc!! hard work ahead then !!