In this thesis I have explored the double bass as a lead instrument in a jazz trio setting by learning, rehearsing and performing melodies. The purpose was to explore the double bass’ melodic potential by approaching the instrument not as a comping instrument but as a lead instrument. My aim was to find different approaches to playing melody on the double bass; find ways to make the melody accessible for me when improvising; examine how the group can support the double bass as a soloist; examine what happens to the music when the bass plays lead; examine how a focus on melody can affect my comping. I studied different melodies and adapted them to the double bass using different techniques. I also created exercises to incorporate the melody of a song into my improvisation. My work was presented as a concert with most of the songs’ melodies played by me. Amongst other things, I found that having the double bass play the melody can lead to a more dynamic performance since the group must be careful not to overpower the bass.