During the Course, students will be able to make an in-depth study of additional pieces of their choice. These pieces should be listed in advance on the Application Form. Active students must provide the collaborating pianist with scores of the pieces being studied in the appropriate key. 

Throughout the Course itself, solo tuning is preferred.

For study purposes during the Course, several modern concert double basses will be made available. These instruments may be used exclusively on Accademia Chigiana premises during open hours and in accordance with turns to be established within Double Bass class.

Modern concert double basses may be rented – pending verification of availability – from the lab of makers Simone and Damiano Verdiani in Colle Val d’Elsa (tel. +39 0577 927099 / info@contrabbassiverdiani.it).

The entrance examination will be held exclusively by video audition. Candidates must submit the following repertoire: 

• one movement to be chosen between: Prelude and Allemande from Suite n.1 BWV 1007 by J.S. Bach, or the “Suite im alten Stil” by Hans Fryba for double bass solo;
• the first movement of a concerto or sonata from the Classical Period without cadenza;
• the first movement of a concerto, sonata, or concert piece with piano accompaniment from the Romantic Period or later.

Note: The video recording for the entrance examination may be made using either orchestral or solo tuning.