The Bass Vault – Rare Double Basses of the Royal Swedish Opera

Join Michael Karlsson – principal bassist of the Royal Swedish Orchestra – as he guides us through a stunning collection of double basses, some of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

From rare French instruments to a Viennese 1806 Sebastian Dallinger, each bass tells a story of craftsmanship, performance — and even a touch of royal intrigue.

🎻 Double Bass Makers Featured in the Video
1. Hawkes & Son
• Origin: London, UK
• Active Period: 1865–1930
• Notes: Renowned for producing high-quality orchestral instruments. Their double basses are particularly esteemed for their craftsmanship and tonal quality.
2. Rudolf
• Origin: Germany
• Notes: The video references a bass labeled “Rudolf,” but Michael couldn't remember his first name. Viewers with knowledge about this luthier are encouraged to share insights in the comments.
3. Gabriel Jacquet (also known as Jacquet-Gand)
• Origin: Mirecourt, France
• Active Period: Circa 1880
• Notes: Part of the esteemed Jacquet-Gand family of luthiers. His instruments are noted for their quality and are sought after by musicians.
4. Paul Claudot
• Origin: Mirecourt, France
• Active Period: 1805–1888
• Notes: Claudot’s double basses are distinguished by their craftsmanship and are highly regarded among musicians.
5. François Pillement
• Origin: Paris, France
• Active Period: Circa 1800
• Notes: Known for producing instruments with a Germanic influence, Pillement’s double basses are rare and valued for their unique tonal qualities.
6. Paquotte Family
• Origin: Mirecourt, France
• Notes: The specific member of the Paquotte family who crafted the bass featured in the video was not mentioned. Viewers with information about this instrument’s maker are invited to contribute their knowledge in the comments.
7. Sebastian Dallinger
• Origin: Vienna, Austria
• Active Period: 1735–1809
• Notes: Dallinger was a prominent Viennese luthier known for his refined work influenced by the Stainer model. His instruments are celebrated for their quality and historical significance.
8. Johann Öhberg
• Origin: Stockholm, Sweden
• Active Period: 1723–1779
• Notes: Öhberg was a leading Swedish luthier of his time, producing a significant number of string instruments, including double basses.
9. Unidentified Bass (approx. 12:10 in the video)
• Notes: The video features a double bass at around the 12:10 mark whose maker is not identified. Viewers who can provide information about this instrument are encouraged to comment.
10. Swiss Double Bass (mentioned near the end of the video)
• Notes: A Swiss-made double bass is discussed towards the video’s conclusion, but specific details about the maker are not provided. Audience members with knowledge about this instrument are welcome to share.
11. James Cole
• Origin: Manchester, UK
• Active Period: Circa 1845–1892
• Notes: Cole’s double basses are recognized for their exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive design features, such as elaborate purfling patterns.

00:00 Intro – Welcome to the Bass Vault
00:33 The Vault Opens – First Basses Revealed
01:50 Five Strings vs. Extensions
03:20 The German Rudolf Bass
04:25 French Corner: Claudot, Pillement, Jacquet
07:00 Story of the 1900 Paris Instrument Trip
09:40 Royal Theater Markings & Basses
10:20 Identifying the Paquotte
12:00 Mystery Bass – Can You Help?
12:40 The Dallinger Bass (Vienna 1806)
15:30 Öhberg Bass – Built for Gustav III
17:00 The Lost Twin Bass Discovery
18:20 Private Basses – Hill, Cole & Swiss
20:00 Final Thoughts – Basses with History

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