What were the predecessors of the double bass?

Answer 1

The predecessors of the double bass include the violone and the bass violin, which were prominent during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The violone, a member of the viol family, had a similar shape but was typically larger and tuned lower than the standard viols. The bass violin, often used in orchestras, also contributed to the evolution of the double bass with its design and playing techniques. These instruments laid the groundwork for the development of the modern double bass in the 18th century.