GEAR
John Lott
English Double Bass
This is my main instrument which I use for everything from orchestral playing to Jazz and solos. I'm currently using PIRASTRO Permanent strings. This bass was previously owned by Keith Marjoram and then by Corin Long. I have been unable to trace it back any further.
Paul Claudot
French Double Bass
This is my second instrument which I mainly use for practice but it is also a lovely Double Bass. It was the first Bass I used professionally. Until recently the maker of this bass was unknown but master luthier Jeroen Bruynooghe found a label attributing the instrument to Paul Claudot. It was previously owned by my Great Aunt Elsie Ford who played in the BBC Symphony Orchestra at the time of Eugene Cruft. I currently use either PIRASTRO Permenant or Perpetual strings on this instrument
Pirastro Strings
As a member of the Double Bass section of the London Philharmonic Orchestra we are proud to exclusively play PIRASTRO strings.
I mainly use a full set of Permanent strings. I find they can keep the deep resonance and low frequencies of the instrument as well as bringing out the higher registers clearly for solo playing.
Fender Jazz V Basses
These are both 2010 Fender American Deluxe J-Bass. I have customised the first of which with Seymour Duncan pickups. I use Elixir Stainless steel strings on both these basses
Fender Precision Basses
These basses are American made Fender Precision basses. Both 4 and 5 string. I prefer using Labella Vintage "deep talking bass" Flatwpund strings on these instruments.
Bryant Bow
This is my main bow I use for orchestral playing. It was previously owned by my
great Aunt. It was made for her when she was working for the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
Reid Hudson Bow
This bow was previously owned by Mary Scully. I tend to use this bow for solos rather than loud orchestral playing.