SONOR Primary Sub-Contra, Contra, and Deep Bass Bars

When you’re looking to add additional bass to your Orff ensemble, bass bars are one amazing solution. This blog is meant to help you understand how the bars are labeled, their specific register, and how they can enhance your ensemble.

Bass Bar Classification Groupings

There are 3 classifications of bass bars in SONOR’s Primary line: Sub-Contra Bass Bars (KSP 100), Contra Bass Bars (KSP 60), and Deep Bass Bars (KSP 50).

Sub-Contra Bass Bars

The Sub-Contra (KSP 100) are the lowest pitched bass bars in the series. The Sub-Contra Bass bar series starts with a low C, an octave below the lowest C on a deep bass xylophone. The pitches available in the SONOR Primary Sub-Contra Bass Bars are C, D, and E. As the pitches ascend, the size of each resonator box gets smaller to match the scale of the bars. The recommended mallet for Sub-Contra Bass Bars is SCH 100 mallet. (Mallets are available separately.)

Contra Bass Bars

The pitches in the Contra Bass Bar line (KSP 100) are F, F-sharp, G, A B-flat, and B.  The range of these bars finishes what the KSP 100 series started and sound the octave below a bass xylophone.  For a more projected sound, we recommend the SCH 8 mallets. (Mallets are available separately.)

Deep Bass Bars

The Deep Bass Bars (KSP 50) match the lowest octave of a deep bass xylophone and are available in C, D, E, F, F-sharp, G, A, B-flat, B, and C1. Recommended mallets (sold separately) for this line are the SCH 8 mallets.

Additional Features of the SONOR Primary Bass Bars

·        Bars are printed with note names and staff positions to help the player connect the sound of the note with its notation

·        Overtone tuning on the Sub-Contra KSP 100 and Contra KSP 60 Series bars

·        The Sub-Contra (KSP 100) and Contra Bass (KSP 60) bars feature a handle groove for safely carrying the bass bars

·        Tuning adjuster under the bar to tightly control frequencies within the room acoustics

·        Mallet holder on the Sub-Contra (KSP 100) and Contra (KSP 60) Series bars

·        Resonator boxes made of birch

Sustainability at SONOR

Sonor is the first worldwide manufacturer to produce Orff instruments from certified wood; they earned an FSC™ certification in 2010. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a non-profit independent organization of 43 counties with the objective to foster the responsible management of forests worldwide.  Since 2004, Sonor has used Proterra, an ecological finish, on the surfaces of their wood products. Proterra is produced from shellac, oil, and carnauba wax. Instead of a lacquer-based wood stain, they insist on using water-soluble, environmentally friendly stain.  In addition to environmental reasons, the use of Proterra protects the health of Sonor’s staff and customers around the world.

Pump Up the Bass Promotion

For a limited time, receive a free Primary FSC bass bar and expand your ensemble. With the purchase of any two Primary FSC Sub-Contra, Contra, or Deep Bass bars, you’ll receive a complimentary bar!

The free bar must be of equal or lesser value of the two being purchased. The complimentary bar is sent directly from Sonor. Purchase your two qualifying bars from West Music between Sep 1, 2018, and Jan 31, 2019. After making your purchase, apply for the free bar online here. Limit one free bar per qualifying sale, with no more than six free bars for all qualifying sales per name and address. Redemption requests must be submitted by 11:50 PM, CST, Feb 28, 2019. For complete details, terms & conditions, visit academicalliance.com/orffredemption.