The endpin is the component of a cello or double bass that makes contact with the floor. It is made of metal and is extensible from the bottom of the instrument, and secured with a thumbscrew. Most bass clarinets and contrabassoons also have a similar fixture. A cello The cello (pronounced Chello) or cello, short for violoncello, is a stringed instrument and a member of the violin family. ... Side and front views of a modern double bass with a French bow. ... A typical bass clarinet The bass clarinet is a musical instrument of the clarinet family. ... Drawing of a Contrabassoon The contrabassoon or double bassoon is a larger version of the bassoon sounding an octave lower. ...

Types of Endpins

Endpins are usually tipped with a point to stick into the floor, which is sometimes capped with black rubber to preserve the floor's surface and provide friction. Generally, endpins are parallel to the shape of the instrument, but some cellists and bassists retool their instruments so that their endpins angle back, improving support. Also, some endpins have a secondary extension for tall musicians. The endpin also may have notches cut in it, allowing it to have extra holding strength at these points. Rubber is an elastic hydrocarbon polymer which occurs as a milky emulsion (known as latex) in the sap of a number of plants but can also be produced synthetically. ... Friction is the force that opposes the relative motion or tendency of such motion of two surfaces in contact. ...

Endpin Stoppers

To prevent slippage of cellos (the endpin is the main source of support for the cello), objects known as "endpin stoppers," "endpin anchors," or "rock stops" are sometimes placed between the endpin and the floor. This usually consists of some kind of rubber or polymer topped with a circular cup to hold the endpin's tip; however, other objects, such as a wooden block with holes and a gel-filled cup, are also used. By increasing the instrument's surface area of contact with the ground, these stoppers make friction stronger and ease playing. Endpin stoppers may be independent or have a strap to anchor itself to the musician's chair. Basses do not require stoppers, as the large mass of the instrument presses down harder on the floor at a less inclined angle, making them unnecessary. Some basses do need rockstops when the performer is sitting on a stool. They also have stoppers that have a ring on one end, to put underneath the foot of a stool, and a metal cup for the endpin on the opposing side.

Endpins and Flooring

Pointed endpins can cause extensive damage, especially to tile and wooden flooring. Many music rooms bear evidence of this in a myriad of small holes. Here, rubber tips and/or stoppers are beneficial. On carpet, the damage is less extensive. The bare tip is thus most effective in outdoor conditions, and old flooring where the damage will not be as serious. Mission, or barrel, roof tiles For the towns named Tile, see Tile, Somalia and Tile, Lebanon. ... It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with Rug making. ...