David Heyes: Bessy's Beginner Bass Trios for Junior Double Bass Trio

About the Trios Bessy’s Beginner Bass Trios are for junior double bass trio, or larger forces, and are primarily in 1st position, with a few easy harmonics in 4th position. A number of playing techniques such as col legno, sul ponticello, Bartók pizz. and bass percussion create interest and contrasts.  1) Bessy's Big Day out is lively and fun with a limited number of notes and rhythms suitable for young bassists. The addition of harmonics in 4th position creates height alongside col legno and sul ponticello which add colour and contrast. The melodic interest is passed between basses 1 and 3 but each player is an important part of the team.  2) Bessy's Highland Fling uses the 'Scotch snap', alongside bagpipe effects, producing a piece which is Scottish-influenced from beginning to end. There is a strong forward momentum, with the repetition of themes and rhythms, and the addition of percussion adds character and drive. More challenging than 'Bessy's Big Day Out', this is a fun and ener