French trains roll back on double bass transport ban

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The French national train service SNCF is formally allowing the transport of double basses on its TGV trains again, after a longstanding ban due to size restrictions. 

The ‘new conditions for welcoming double basses on board TGV INOUI’ were announced in a press release issued from Rachida Dati, Minister of Culture. This change of heart follows a six-month test phase, the results of which were ‘positive and conclusive for all stakeholders’.

The rollback follows years of campaigning by musicians. In 2021, an open letter published in Le Monde was signed by 45,000 people, illustrating the struggles faced by those denied access on board trains with large instruments.

There is, however, still a catch: only one instrument will be accommodated per train.

The new conditions for the transport of double basses are as follows:

‘Double basses received on board transported under a soft cover must not exceed 1m 95, cover included.

‘The spaces suitable for accommodating double basses are located in 1st class in double-decker TGVs and in 2nd class in single-decker TGVs, and only one double bass can be accommodated per train for safety reasons. If a double bass is already on board, the musician will be repositioned on the next train.

‘Musicians reserve and occupy seats located near their instrument. It is recommended to book in advance and to favour trains running during ‘off-peak’ periods (except Friday afternoon and Sunday afternoon for example and favour trains between 10am and 4pm on weekdays).

‘Anticipation of travel and communication between the musician and the conductor are essential for the success of the system. Musicians are therefore invited to introduce themselves in advance to the conductor before boarding the train to ensure the availability of the suitable space.’

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