since you are bucking tradition, is there anything that says you have to play it so the bass is upright?

What about strapping it on like an electric bass? I'm guessing the scale length is probably much longer, but I don't know for sure. I think some of the Ned Steinberger basses that have the curved fretboard like the uprights are designed for being worn.

Or how about hanging it horizontal, strings pointed out or even playing it like a big ol 4 string dulcimer?

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