Inspired by the robust and powerful double basses of Mittenwald, Germany.
Violinmaking took root in Mittenwald in the late 17th Century, with the establishment of Matthias Kloz’s shop in 1686. With abundant resources of spruce and maple at his disposal and a favorable trade location, he and his sons would establish a design style, refined by exposure to northern Italian masters, that lives on to this day.
The Mittenwald model Upton Bass is our classic “big” Gamba model bass that plays with ease, featuring its sloping shoulders and ergonomically shaped body and rib transitions. We have many players loving these “big” basses who’re many inches short of six feet.
Our work on a direct copy of a Kloz pattern double bass, and the building of a larger instrument in the same style led us to define this Upton Bass model. The contrabasses from the Mittenwald school are characterized by a high-shouldered gamba pattern with deep ribs, resulting in a fine orchestral double bass. Our version incorporates all the ergonomic improvements and geometries found in other Upton models, with great flexibility in sizing afforded by the stout German pattern. The gamba pattern, especially when combined with a flat back, allows us to build this upright bass in the 5/8ths sizing of the Kloz copy, all the way up to a large 7/8ths pattern built to lift a string section or push a big band.
As with all Upton Basses the Mittenwald model Upton Bass is available in three build styles, with a full array of add on and upgrade items to choose from:
Hybrid Flat Back, from $9,000
Solid Wood Flat Back, from $12,500
Solid Wood Round Back, from $15,000
*We have entirely custom commission slots available at all times and amazing tone wood selections to build you something truly one of a kind. These instruments range in the $20,000-$30,000+/- range. Checkout out our Upton Bass Blog and @uptonbass on instagram for examples of our work.
*American made basses made entirely at Upton Bass in Mystic CT
Ready to get your bass built? Get in our queue with an Upton Double Bass Deposit!
For the full range of custom possibilities, submit an enquiry or call the shop! +1 (860) 535-9399.
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT AN INQUIRY FOR YOUR CUSTOM UPTON BASS!
Call us today, or visit our Mystic, CT workshop to discuss the Mittenwald. Whether you want a custom orchestral double bass or are interested in a big band or any other style, we will build the perfect upright bass for you.
Ask about our simple financing! +1 (860) 535-9399
