Paris, 24/10/2024.

The experiment to welcome double basses on board INOUI TGVs, launched on July 1, 2024, will continue until December 18 under identical conditions.

Initially scheduled to run until September 8, the extension of this trial will enable us to complete the lessons learned from this phase, with a view to making the system permanent, if it proves satisfactory.

Following numerous exchanges and discussions with the industry, the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Transport, SNCF Voyageurs launched an experiment this summer, the framework of which had been shared with professional music organizations.

The experiment took into account safety imperatives, optimization of space on board trains, passenger comfort and the different types of TGV INOUI. The double bass is currently free, but could become a paying service if SNCF Voyageurs decides to make it a permanent feature following this second phase of experimentation.

An experiment for whom?

It concerns double basses only, and subject to certain conditions: they must be transported in a soft, labelled bag, and must not exceed 1m95 in length, bag included.

Where?

Places for double basses are located in 1st class on double-decker TGVs, and in 2nd class on single-decker TGVs.

On 2-level trains: the lower part of the baggage area, located in the upper room at the back of car 1 (or 11), can be used to accommodate a double bass. The use of this space is then linked to the purchase of a seat nearby, i.e. for the musician the purchase of a seat in 1st class or "Business première" is compulsory.

On 1-level trains: The accessible space is located on the platform in car 7 or 8 (or 17 or 18), in the immediate vicinity of the passenger area. To use this space, a seat must be reserved nearby, i.e. the musician must purchase a seat in 2nd class.

How is it being tested?

One suitable space has been identified per train, which will largely meet the identified need. As the reservation system during this test phase does not allow us to block spaces when purchasing a ticket, musicians are advised to :

• Purchase tickets as early as possible;
• Favour trains running in "off-peak" periods (excluding Friday afternoons and Sunday afternoons, for example, and trains between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays);
• To arrive 20 minutes before the train's departure time, to present themselves to the conductor so that they can be guided if necessary, and above all to make the best use of the identified space.

Good communication between the musicians and the conductor is essential to the success of this experiment. In case of difficulty, the best solution will be found, and if the passenger's seat is not visually close to the instrument, for example, a replacement in the train will be studied. Furthermore, if a double bass is already on board, the passenger will be invited to take the next train without penalty.

During the test phase, close collaboration with a number of double bassists using the service, and analysis of feedback from our conductors, will enable us to monitor the practical results observed on board, and to identify any possible improvements or adjustments to be made to the service.