Reviews

Would you say that in terms of French bass making Paul Claudot is a pretty big name? Yes indeed. Most bass players have heard of the name and recognise his position as being one of the better French bass makers. Would you say that this instrument is synonymous with his reputation? Yes it certainly is. Claudot made both viol shaped instruments and those on a violin outline. This particular instrument is one of the more sought after “ Grand Violin Modéles ” with a flat back and proportions so exact that when viewed from a distance it looks every bit...

How do you know that this double bass was made by G. Pareschi? The instrument bears its original label on the inside bass-side back. The large printed label reads; PIACENZA (ITALY) 1979G. PARESCHIVIA M. LUIGIA D'AUSTRIA 37Tel --- Is the printed label signed at all? Yes. Immediately after his surname the maker has written his signature diagonally across a short length of stave that commences with a treble clef. Are there any other labels? There is a second makers label affixed to the upper inside block. It is identical to the one in the standard position. Are there any brands?...

How do you know that this double bass once belonged to Domenico Dragonetti? On page 72 and 73 of the pioneering book “Introduction To The Double Bass” by Raymond Elgar (Published by the author in 1960.) there is a short history and full-frontal photograph of the instrument. What does the book say? Reproduced from page 72 of the book. 'The double bass illustrated opposite is one of the finest in the world. It was reputed to have been made by Gennaro Gagliano (fl.c.1730–1780 Naples) by Claude Hobday, a great player and recognised authority on basses. This instrument was brought from...