The February issue of The Strad is on sale now, in which we celebrate a new golden age of the double bass. In our cover story, six rising young bass players discuss what attracted them to the instrument, its demands and their ambitions for the future.

Our bass special also includes: Jeff Bradetichon the pioneers who inspired future generations to think of the bass as a solo instrument; the problems of travelling with such a large instrument; an interview with trailblazing female double bassist Barbara Sanderling; experienced bass luthiers on what it takes to make a bass; double bass legend François Rabbath on his favourite things; valuing a double bass; and top pedagogues on teaching the bass.

In our regular sections: In Focus gives a close-up view of a double bass by Bernhard Simon Fendt; David Briggs gives his method for fitting a low-C extension to a double bass in Trade Secrets; Canadian bass maker James Haminvites us into his workshop in My Space; Dan Styffe guides us through Teppo Hauta-Aho’s Kadenza for solo double bass in Masterclass; double bass pedagogue Petya Bagovskadiscusses practice, bowing and public performance in Ask the Teacher; London Symphony Orchestra principal bassist Joel Quarrington takes us through his Practice Diary; and four bow makers explain how to look after a bow in Ask the Experts.

Plus, we bring you news of the latest competitions, products and auctions, and comprehensive reviews of concerts, CDs and books.