Shows
Contrabass ConversationsGerman vs French bowToday’s deep-dive riffs on the topic of German and French bow, and advantages and disadvantages of both. Enjoy, and check out the accompanying YouTube video for a more caffeinated and shorter version! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Doub...2022-01-2013 min
Contrabass ConversationsAli Cook on moving to Austin and high-level subbingAli Cook is a bassist, singer, and songwriter currently located in Austin, Texas. She has performed with the National Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Washington Ballet, Tanglewood, Spoleto Festival USA, the Alabama Symphony, and at the Salzburger Festspiele. Ali is currently teaching in Austin and building her career as an independent singer-songwriter. We talk about her path into music, what it was like being a long-term substitute player in top-level orchestras, creativity and how it works (or doesn’t!) in an orchestral setting, taking the plunge and moving to Austin to pursue new...2022-01-171h 02
Contrabass ConversationsIs it cheating to mark the fingerboard?Today’s solo show is a deeper dive into this week’s video topic of marking the fingerboard and the resulting benefits and pitfalls. Enjoy! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. Thank you to our...2022-01-1313 min
Contrabass ConversationsKai Jack on bass community developmentKai Jack is the founder of The Mediterranean Double Bass Forum, which is a community-driven organization by and for double bassists designed to empower, inspire and connect double bassists of all ages and levels, particularly in countries around the Mediterranean Sea. We talk about Kai’s musical journey, his inspiration to start this organization, the impact that they’ve had so far, bass community organizing in general, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to follow The Mediterranean Double Bass Forum on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews deli...2022-01-1049 min
Contrabass ConversationsThe "rules" of double bass fingeringToday’s solo show is a deeper dive into this week’s video topic of bass fingering “rules.” Enjoy, and you can download a PDF of these rules here. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. Thank...2022-01-0622 min
Contrabass ConversationsReflections on 2021Today’s episode is a look back at 2021 and things to come. Enjoy, and see you in 2022 for more bass content! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. Thank you to our sponsors! Upton...2021-12-3014 min
Contrabass ConversationsMetrics and milestonesToday’s episode is a solo show reflecting on major milestones for the podcast over the years. Enjoy! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass St...2021-12-2716 min
Contrabass ConversationsNoelle Marty on hiking the Pacific Crest TrailNoëlle Marty recently hiked 2100 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, going from Tehachapi, California to Canada in 117 days and going through 5 pairs of shoes. We talk about what it was like doing this and more in today’s inspiring episode. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 250+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classi...2021-11-0440 min
Contrabass ConversationsBrandino is back!Kevin “Brandino” Brandon is an Eastman artist and winner of multiple Grammy awards. He is also a longtime five-string bass player, and we dig into that topic and many more in today’s episode. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Ba...2021-10-2549 min
Contrabass ConversationsThe FBI seized my bass course!100% true story! You can check out the YouTube video for some visuals as well. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass St...2021-10-2130 min
Contrabass ConversationsAndrés Martín’s solo bass launchAndrés Martín’s Signature Edition double basses are now available through Eastman! We go behind the scenes with Andrés on the experience of making these basses today. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course and Intermediate to Advanced Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. Th...2021-10-1844 min
Contrabass ConversationsElsen Price on Gastronomy AstrologyElsen Price recently released a new album titled Gastronomy Astrology, which features some of Australia’s leading jazz players. We talk about this latest album and much more in this third interview with Elsen. Enjoy! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. ...2021-10-1444 min
Contrabass ConversationsMichael Fanelli on Paul Rolland Michael Fanelli is a bassist, educator, musicologist, and author who is also Professor Emeritus of Education at the University of Northern Iowa. As string/orchestra specialist at the UNI Malcolm Price Laboratory School, he created and taught the string curriculum for grades 4 through 12 based on Rolland Teaching of Action in String Playing materials. In the School of Music, he was the instructor of a string methods course modeled on Rolland’s University of Illinois pedagogy course. We talk about Michael’s path through the music world, getting introduced to Paul Rolland and his innov...2021-09-091h 20
Contrabass ConversationsJeffrey Zimmerman on Stuart KnussenDr. Jeffrey C. Zimmerman is a bassist and former student of Stuart Knussen. His thirty-plus years of experience and study across various disciplines from masters in music, Asian medicine, martial arts, medical qigong, tai chi, and science led to the development of his technique, Harmonetiks, to enhance healing, self-care, and performance. We talk about Jeff’s path through the music world, what it was like studying with Stuart Knussen, Jeff’s pivot into medicine, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to check out Harmonetiks for more about Jeff’s medical practice. Subscribe to the po...2021-09-0646 min
Contrabass ConversationsJames Oesi on the Dutch Double Bass FestivalJames Oesi is the founder of the Dutch Double Bass Festival, which will be running for the third edition on October 29th and 30th in Rotterdam. This year’s lineup will include Dave Holland, Ben Williams, Sasha Witteveen, and many others. Pick up tickets on their website now, and be sure to follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. List...2021-09-0246 min
Contrabass ConversationsIshani Bhoola on International Youth Orchestra BridgesIshani Bhoola is building an orchestra of young musicians to tour South Africa in July 2024. This project is called International Youth Orchestra Bridges and is a collaboration between the West Coast Youth Orchestra (South Africa) and the Waverley Ensemble (UK). It will bring together young musicians from the UK and South Africa, aged between 13 and 17, to form an international orchestra. The musicians will rehearse in their own countries and/or online, before coming together in South Africa in July 2024, to perform at venues in Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Johannesburg. Check out this...2021-08-3016 min
Contrabass ConversationsIntern with us!We are now accepting applications to intern with us! Learn about the program and what it entails in this episode, and you can apply to intern through this link. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. Thank you to our...2021-08-1207 minContrabass ConversationsWabass Institute 2021 - a look backThis short episode features a look at the 2021 Wabass Institute, with short interviews from faculty members Ranaan Meyer, Eric Larson, and Hal Robinson. Enjoy, and you can also check out this video for a deep-dive at this year’s event. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course, available exclusi...2021-08-0922 min
Contrabass ConversationsRodney Jordan and Christian Fabian on ConversationsRodney Jordan and Christian Fabian have recently released a new album of bass duos called Conversations. We chat about the idea behind this album, what it was like putting it together, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to check out Conversations on Spotify, Apple Music, and wherever you listen to music! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app fo...2021-07-2251 min
Contrabass ConversationsEleanor Martindale on RCR Double Bass Camp 2021We’re chatting with Eleanor Martindale about this summer’s RCR Double Bass Camp, which will be coming up August 16-21 in Perpignan, France. We talk about how the camp is organized, the teachers that will be there, and much more. Enjoy, and you can learn more about the RCR Double Bass Camp on their website, Instagram, and Facebook! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 100+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen...2021-07-1927 min
Contrabass ConversationsISB Young Bassist Program PreviewLearn about the latest Young Bassist program offerings for the 2021 International Society of Bassists Convention in this special episode! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Check out our Online Sheet Music Store with 80+ wide-ranging titles for bassists. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle. Check out my Beginner's Classical Bass course, available exclusively from Discover Double Bass. Thank you to our sponsors! Dorico - Dorico helps you to wr...2021-03-2918 min
Contrabass ConversationsMusicians for the WorldMusicians for the World is a non-profit incorporated in the spring of 2020 to give free musical education to students in need globally. So far, they have over 150 students in Haiti, Peru, and Mexico. Bassist Adam Rowton reached out to me about doing an interview with him and co-founders Jesus Saenz and Kelley McGarry, and it was great to learn about this new organization and their inspiring mission. Jesus, Kelley, and Adam are looking for staff and volunteers as they continue to increase their fundraising efforts, so be sure to contact them if you would like...2020-10-0135 min
Contrabass ConversationsFumi Tomita on playing jazz and academiaFumi Tomita just released a new album called Celebrating Bird: A Tribute To Charlie Parker. This new release from Fumi explores the ideas of Bird in a fresh and creative way. We dig into all kinds of topics, like what it was like growing up in New York City, Fumi’s move into academia, and his current position at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the surprises and opportunities of this career pivot, and much more. Check out the latest album and more on Fumi’s website, and be sure follow along with hi...2020-09-281h 01
Contrabass ConversationsChris Lightcap on forging a path in jazzChris Lightcap is a bassist and composer with over 80 album credits and six critically acclaimed albums of original music. Chris is known for his work with Marc Ribot, Regina Carter, Craig Taborn, and many other noted artists, and his 2019 album SuperBigmouth was listed by Rolling Stone in their Best Jazz of 2019 article. We dig into Chris' early years, his circuitous path through the music world, his appearance on the burning ambulance podcast, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to check out Chris and his great albums on his website and fol...2020-09-241h 48
Contrabass ConversationsHeidi Kay Begay of Flute 360 podcastHeidi Kay Begay is the host of the Flute 360 Podcast as well as a flutist, teacher, and non-profit organizer. She and I connected to talk about all things podcasting, and she cross-posted this conversation on her podcast as well. We dig into content creation, daily and weekly routines, social media and marketing, email newsletters, and much more. Heidi also recently featured my friend and colleague (and fellow bassist!) Garrett Hope, which was an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation. Enjoy, and be sure to follow Heidi’s great work on Instagram and Facebook! ...2020-09-211h 23
Contrabass ConversationsAlan Lewine on Sephardic TreasuresI’ve had the good fortune to work with Alan Lewine on the International Society of Bassists board for several years, and his artistic journey has always seemed fascinating to me. The recent release of Sephardic Treasures, his latest album with his wife Ana María Ruimonte, was a good excuse to sit down and chat about his multifaceted career and unconventional journey. We dig into Alan’s path through the music world, the decision to go to law school and the career shift that resulted, this new chapter in his life after retiring, the latest...2020-09-171h 05
Contrabass ConversationsTomoya Amori of AKDuoTomoya Amori is truly one of the most well-rounded musicians I’ve ever met. Not only is he an incredible bass player, but he also subs as a percussionist in the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and has a vibrant career as a multi-genre cellist! Tomoya and his wife Julia Kang form AKDuo, which specialize in playing jazz/classical/pop fusions composed or arranged by Tomoya. They also run performance workshops titled “Be Creative!” and have performed worldwide. Learn more about Tomoya and his creative explorations on the AKDuo website, and follow their YouTube Channel to check out Tomo...2020-09-141h 14
Contrabass ConversationsKatie Thiroux launches The HumpIt’s great to have Katie Thiroux back on the podcast to chat about her new show The Hump. Katie was on the podcast in 2018, and it is so inspiring to follow along with her artistic career. We talk about our respective Discover Double Bass courses, including Katie’s “baseball card,” which I hold up at the beginning of our chat. We mostly dig into her new show The Hump, online teaching, and how she has been spending her time during the quarantine. Be sure to follow The Hump on Instagram, and check ou...2020-09-1030 min
Contrabass ConversationsDeep Tones for Peace with Mark Dresser and William ParkerOn today’s episode, we’re featuring Mark Dresser and William Parker in a discussion about Deep Tones for Peace 2020. Here’s a description of the current project, which is a continuation of the Deep Tones for Peace international event in 2009: Deep Tones for Peace 2020 is a regular streaming of live meditations for peace, healing, and transformation. Musicians transmitting deep tones to counterbalance the many systemic injustices woven into the fabric of our society. Deep tones can strengthen the unseen bonds of our diversity as we oppose economic, educational, and environmental inequities fueled by racism, sexism...2020-09-0723 min
Contrabass ConversationsJon Liebman on developing For Bass Players OnlyJon Liebman has led a varied and prolific career through the music world, and a lot has changed about his website For Bass Players Only since we last chatted for the podcast. We talk about how Jon has consolidated his offerings into a single site, how he has restructured his interviews for the site, his online teaching offerings, and upcoming book projects. We also dig into a ton of great tales from Jon’s wild adventures from his years in the music business. Enjoy, and be sure to follow along with Jon a...2020-09-031h 18
Contrabass ConversationsIan Allison on finding his nicheIan Allison has been going all-in on Instagram these past few years, and he has been inspiring countless people in the process. As the bassist for Eric Hutchinson and a seasoned veteran in the industry, Ian has been working to connect and educate through Instagram, and the results have been incredible. We talk about growing up in Montana, the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and its early influence on him, basing his career in Minneapolis, the “synth bass on electric” niche that he has created for himself, what the pandemic is like, the practice routine he outlin...2020-08-311h 07
Contrabass ConversationsAlyssa Peterson on launching a podcastAlyssa Peterson has had quite the freshman year. She hails from La Crosse, Wisconsin and has spent the past year at New England Conservatory, where she launched a podcast called Something to Consider: College Edition. We talk about how crazy her first year of school has been with the pandemic, her goals for starting the podcast, the importance of self-care for musicians, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to check out Alyssa on Instagram and her podcast on Apple Podcasts! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with o...2020-08-2754 min
Contrabass ConversationsJason Haahiem on how to actually improveJason Haaheim’s path to his current position as principal timpanist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra is unconventional and inspiring. He didn’t go to music school, instead of getting a PhD and working for 10 years as an engineer and researcher for a Chicago-based nanotechnology startup. Through the principles of deliberate practice, Jason set out on a long journey of continual improvement in his playing, ultimately winning an audition for his current position. We dig into a ton of topics, like our shared time spent freelancing in Chicago, discovering deliberate practice, the gro...2020-08-241h 42
Contrabass ConversationsRichard Myron on early musicBrooklyn native Richard Myron has spent his professional life in Europe working in the early music world. Currently residing in Paris, Richard is professor of contrabass and chamber music in the early music department of the CRR de Paris and the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Music de Paris. He is also a founding member of the Freiburger Barockorchester and Consort, the Atlantis Ensemble, Il Seminario Musicale, les Basses Réunies and a member of the Ensemble Mosaïques, and he has performed internationally with a great number of other ensembles. We dig...2020-08-201h 04
Contrabass ConversationsJonathan Haskell reflects on new directionsI had a wonderful conversation with Jonathan Haskell a few years ago, and a lot has changed in his life since then. He recently retired from L’Orchestre De La Suisse Romande in Switzerland, and he has been diving deep into the world of contemporary music. He also wrote a thoughtful article for the Chicago Tribune about the conflicting emotions surrounding retiring after 40 years on the job. We talk about a wide range of topics, including diving into contemporary music, how he approaches learning a piece, the bass’ role in contemporary ensembl...2020-08-1748 min
Contrabass ConversationsT. Alan Stewart on his musical journeyT. Alan Stewart wears many musical hats in the Baltimore/Washington DC area. In addition to serving as principal bass with the Williamsburg Symphony and Roanoke Symphony, Alan has performed with the Baltimore Opera, National Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Spoleto Festival, Alexander Schnieder String Orchestra; and many other ensembles in the area. We cover a lot of ground in this conversation, digging into topics like Alan’s path through the music world, his time in the New World Symphony and subsequently working with Mstislav Rostropovich and the National Symphony, audition preparation, The Artist’s Way, diversity and i...2020-08-131h 39
Contrabass ConversationsAndrea Beyer on auditions and teachingAndrea Beyer is a bassist, teacher, and advocate for social growth. Having recently finished up three years with the New World Symphony, Andrea has relocated to Austin, Texas. She recently started blogging for AuditionCafe.com, where she has been focusing on how all kinds of musicians are handling the pandemic and lockdown. Andrea also recently asked me to write a piece for the blog, which was a pleasure for me to do. We talk about her background, the teaching and performing that she has done in Mexico, El Salvador, Uruguay, Bolivia, and o...2020-08-1054 min
Contrabass ConversationsGahlord Dewald on water tank acousticsIt was great to connect with Gahlord Dewald about his latest album Coherent Light Enclosed Without. This album was recorded at The Tank Center for Sonic Arts on a hill above the town of Rangely, Colorado. We talk about this fascinating performance venue, how Gahlord found himself heading to The Tank for this project, what it’s like preparing to record in such a unique acoustic space, and much more. Enjoy, and measure to follow Gahlord on YouTube and check out this new album here! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free ap...2020-08-0651 min
Contrabass ConversationsBrendan Fitzgerald on audition prepToday we’re featuring Christian Dillingham, a Grammy Award-winning bassist who happens to be one of my longtime friends. Christian recently joined the faculty at Indiana University to teach jazz bass. We chat about that and much more! Check out my in-person conversation with Christian from the 2019 International Society of Bassists Convention, and be sure to follow him on Instagram! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations production team: Jason Heath, host Michael Cooper and Steve Hinchey, audio editing Mitch M...2020-07-2753 min
Contrabass ConversationsJosh Skinner on the Lionel Hampton Jazz FestivalWe’re featuring Josh Skinner on today’s podcast. Josh is a bassist, composer, and faculty member at the University of Idaho. Josh also directs the annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, which brings together thousands of jazz students from the United States and abroad. I also had the pleasure of being a clinician at the 2020 festival and spending some time in person with Josh. We talk about the festival, how Josh is handling the pandemic, his path through the music world, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to fo...2020-07-231h 01
Contrabass ConversationsChristian Dillingham on joining the Indiana University facultyToday we’re featuring Christian Dillingham, a Grammy Award-winning bassist who happens to be one of my longtime friends. Christian recently joined the faculty at Indiana University to teach jazz bass. We chat about that and much more! Check out my in-person conversation with Christian from the 2019 International Society of Bassists Convention, and be sure to follow him on Instagram! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations production team: Jason Heath, host Michael Cooper and Steve Hinchey, audio editing Mitch M...2020-07-2017 min
Contrabass ConversationsSam Morel on bass makingToday we’re featuring Sam Morel, a French double bass luthier who has recently taken a job at David Gage String Instruments. Sam won a Silver Medal for Tone at the 2019 International Society of Bassists Convention and a Certificate of Merit at the 2018 Violin Society of America Competition. We talk about the various basses he has built, how life has been for him during the pandemic, working with Patrick Charton, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to follow Sam on Facebook and Instagram! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS...2020-07-1641 min
Contrabass ConversationsStephen P. Brown on flipping your approachWe’re chatting with conductor and career development coach Stephen P. Brown today. Stephen appeared on the podcast in 2019, and we dig into developing your career during the pandemic, what holds so many musicians back, what life is looking like for Stephen at the present moment, and much more. Follow along with Stephen on Facebook and Twitter, and be sure to check out his podcast Classic Jabber! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations production team: Jason Heath, host Michael Cooper and Steve Hinchey, audi...2020-07-141h 08
Contrabass ConversationsAnnie Bosler and Trevor Jones: College Prep for MusiciansToday’s episode is the 4th and final of The Scholarship Roadmap’s takeover of the Contrabass Conversations podcast feed. The Scholarship Roadmap is an online program for student musicians pursuing careers in music. It was developed by Contrabass Conversations team member, Trevor Jones. Book a discovery call with Trevor to see if it’s right for you. “A performance degree is a way to give you a language, it gives you skills you can carry into any other profession.” -Annie Bosler Dr. Bosler co-wrote College Prep For Musicians and How to practice...2020-07-0948 min
Contrabass ConversationsRob Kassinger and Trevor Jones: The Scholarship RoadmapToday’s episode is the 3rd of 4 of The Scholarship Roadmap’s takeover of the Contrabass Conversations podcast feed. The Scholarship Roadmap is an online program for student musicians pursuing careers in music. It was developed by Contrabass Conversations team member, Trevor Jones. Book a discovery call with Trevor to see if it’s right for you. “What I’m looking for is seriousness, talent, and a work ethic that exceeds that talent.” -Rob Kassinger Today, I’m chatting with Chicago Symphony Orchestra bassist and Professor of Double Bass at DePaul University Schoo...2020-07-0842 min
Contrabass ConversationsJames Day and Trevor Jones: The Scholarship RoadmapToday’s episode is the 2nd of 4 of The Scholarship Roadmap’s takeover of the Contrabass Conversations podcast feed. The Scholarship Roadmap is an online program for student musicians pursuing careers in music. It was developed by Contrabass Conversations team member, Trevor Jones. Book a discovery call with Trevor to see if it’s right for you. “We have to understand the significance of what we’re doing, the place it is has in the world, and the potential impact every one of those choices can make.” -Dr. James Day On today’s show, I...2020-07-0735 min
Contrabass ConversationsThe Scholarship Roadmap with Trevor JonesTrevor Jones is launching a new program called The Scholarship Roadmap that addresses the tricky business of choosing a college that fits your musical needs. We talk about the challenges, experiences, and tactics that Trevor has developed through his broad range of experiences teaching at the high school and collegiate levels. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations production team: Jason Heath, host Michael Cooper and Steve Hinchey, audio editing Mitch Moehring, audio engineer Trevor Jones, publication and pro...2020-07-0629 min
Contrabass ConversationsDan Turkos on crowdfunding during a crisisIt’s rare for me to interview a fellow San Franciscan like Dan Turkos over the web instead of in person, but we’re in strange times for sure right now. Despite the pandemic, Dan and his wife successfully raised over $12,000 on Kickstarter for her debut album. We talk about this, their life before moving to San Francisco and what attracted them to the city, their multi-genre duo Beneath a Tree - Baroque to Folk, having the neck of his bass snapped off during a trip to California, and much more. Enjoy...2020-07-021h 13
Contrabass ConversationsJohnny Hamil on Bassists 4 BassistsJohnny Hamil has been building bass events for the past decade, and he has organized something really special for this summer: Bassists 4 Bassists. This online event will take place July 7-11, and will feature Francois Rabbath, Lynn Seaton, Jessica Valls, Hans Sturm, Billy Sheehan, and many other well-known bassists. You can register here, and check out this preview video to get a taste of what’ll be happening at the event. Hope to see you there! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations prod...2020-07-011h 10
Contrabass ConversationsHelen Svoboda on her solo albumHelen Svoboda has just released a solo album titled Vegetable Bass featuring her compelling compositional voice and combination of bass and vocals. I had the chance to chat with her in 2019, and it was so much fun connecting with her about this new project and other topics. In addition to the album, we talk about our current respective living situations, her upcoming move back to Australia and how the pandemic temporarily derailed it, how she began using the bow, and much more. Check out Helen’s new album...2020-06-2946 min
Contrabass ConversationsChris Fitzgerald on jujitsu and bassChris Fitzgerald has been putting out incredible jazz bass content on YouTube for years. He recently released a comprehensive review of the Noble Tube Preamp, and he is in the early stages of a new project that he is calling “Bass Jitsu.” We talk about this new project, how his early piano teacher was the original inspiration for this approach tot he bass, what it’s like putting these massive video projects together, the challenges of teaching online in these current times, and much more. I also bring up this excellent video from Chris and...2020-06-2540 min
Contrabass ConversationsSara Neilson, Online Beginner Bass CampSara Neilson will be running an online beginner bass camp for students age 8-12 from July 6th through July 30th. She’ll be doing hourly sessions from 10-11 am Central Time. Sara teaches bass at the Merit School of Music in Chicago, and she has been running a series of warm-up classes each weekday on Facebook. She also recently wrote an article titled ‘Game Changer’ for the International Society of Bassists’ Bass World magazine. We talk about all this, how things have been going during the pandemic, staying relaxed on the bass, and much more. You can als...2020-06-2443 min
Contrabass ConversationsSusanna Klein on PractizmaSusanna Klein has been working on a really cool project the past few years: Practizma. This is a journal that takes you through 16 weeks of guided practice, with goal setting, reflection prompt, action challenges, and journal pages to track your practice. In addition to this very cool system, we talk about Susanna’s background, what it has been like teaching online these past few months, the evolution of the journal, the concept of deliberate practice, my trusty practice app Modiacty, and much more. Be sure to check out the Practizma website for m...2020-06-221h 18
Contrabass ConversationsTom Walley on staying active during quarantineTom Walley has certainly been keeping busy during the quarantine, publishing a ton content on his Instagram and YouTube, including his arrangement of the Adagio from Mahler's 9th Symphony with his fellow London Philharmonic Orchestra section members. Tom and I talk about this recording and his other quarantine projects, canceled tours, moving out of London for the time being, long-distance relationships, traveling with a bass, and even shaving his head! Enjoy, and be sure to say hi to Tom on Instagram. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kin...2020-06-1856 min
Contrabass ConversationsHans Roelofsen and Rudolf Senn on bass duo adventuresI’ve been following along with the musical adventures of Hans Roelofsen and Rudolph Senn for years. They have toured the world as a bass duo, with 15 trips to the United States alone. Throughout these trips, they have collected some fantastic stories. We dig into these stories, how they came to play as a duo, challenges of transcription, the implications of choosing a particular key for an arrangement, and much more. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! This podcast is brough...2020-06-1559 min
Contrabass ConversationsBill Rinehart and Jaime Slutsky on online learningBill Rinehart has been teaching jazz piano online for the past 13 years, and he has been working with Jaime Slutzky recently to redevelop certain aspects of his online offerings. I’ve been obsessed with finding new ways to frame the private lesson experience for years, and the current pandemic has made music teachers across the globe rethink the one-on-one traditional private lesson experience. Bill, Jaime, and I talk about a wide range of topics, including online learning platforms like Thinkific, Jaime’s incubator program, the unique challenges and rewards that teaching an artistic pursuit like musi...2020-06-1151 min
Contrabass ConversationsAbo Gumroyan on taking chancesAbo Gumroyan truly is a musical chameleon. In addition to winning Grammys with the Pacific Mambo Orchestra, Abo has played with the San Francisco Symphony, played on countless sessions, worked on Las Vegas shows, and much more. We dig into Abo’s musical background, his time studying with Scott Pingel, Steve Tramontozzi, David Allen Moore, and many others, what it has been like adjusting to the pandemic, and much more. Be sure to follow along with Abo on Instagram, and also check out this cool video that he put together for us demonstrating the gear he...2020-06-0844 min
Contrabass ConversationsMary Javian on career developmentIn addition to being an outstanding bassist, Mary Javian has an inspiring goal in life: to use music to create positive social change in communities. We dig into her role as Chair of Career Studies at the Curtis Institute of Music, what this institution offered in terms of career development when she was a student and how it has evolved over the years, what this work means to her, the importance of authentic community engagement, and much more. Mary and I have played together in the Iris Orchestra several times over the years, and it...2020-06-0458 min
Contrabass ConversationsCarlos Barriento and Opportunity Music ProjectThe whole world is adjusting to new ways of interaction, and the world of music advocacy is no exception. Jessica Garand’s Opportunity Music Project has been doing a particularly good job of adapting their El Sistema-style program to these current times, with their Sponsor a Student program and many other initiatives and offerings. In today’s episode, we chat with Jessica and OMP bass instructor Carlos Barriento about the work that this program does, what it has been like teaching online, the challenges and meaningful moments that online teaching has been bringing them, and much more. Enjoy...2020-06-011h 02
Contrabass ConversationsDrew Gress on jazz, birdwatching, and creativityDrew Gress’ biography reads like a who’s who of the jazz world, including collaboration with Tim Berne, Ravi Coltrane, Uri Caine, John Hollenbeck, and countless others. He has appeared on over 140 recordings, 4 of which have received Grammy nominations. In this conversation, which was prompted by Richard Ivy, a former student of Drew’s, we discuss many topics, including: Drew’s in-depth interview with Pablo Held and the many areas they explore similarities to jazz and birdwatching (a pastime of Drew’s) spending time and working with Gary Peacock Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversation...2020-05-2853 min
Contrabass ConversationsMarcos Machado on Tao of Bass Volume 2Marcos Machado shows no signs of slowing down even during the pandemic! He recently joined the Discover Double Bass teaching team and released a course in the fall of 2019 titled Integral Technique. photo credit: Discover Double Bass This course is based on the extensive research and experimentation Marcos has done in fingerings through his epic work Tao of Bass. We spoke with Marcos about volume one of this series a few years ago, and he’s gearing up to release volume two later this year. This interview digs into Marcos’ fingering journey, what’s in sto...2020-05-2544 min
Contrabass ConversationsMiles Perkin on extended techniquesMiles Perkin is exploring fascinating musical territory with the double bass. Originally from Canada and now living in Berlin, he recently released a solo bass album called Subtones that mixes voice, bass, and extended techniques in unexpected and compelling ways. In this conversation, recorded in March just before the pandemic fully shut down the globe, we talk about his background the Berlin experimental music scene, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to follow Miles on Facebook and Instagram! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! I...2020-05-2157 min
Contrabass ConversationsSusan Cahill on staying inspired under quarantineSusan Cahill has been finding all kinds of ways to keep herself inspired musically during the pandemic. She had finished filming an episode for the PBS Series Now Hear This prior to the lockdown, and she has been immersing herself in several music at-home projects. We talk about these projects, how practicing other instruments fits into her musicianship, thoughts on small and large group performances going forward, and much more. Enjoy, and check out her appearance on the podcast from 2017 here! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kin...2020-05-1856 min
Contrabass ConversationsJaromir Honzak on the Czech jazz sceneWe’re featuring Czech double bass player Jaromír Honzák on the podcast today. Jaromír recently released an album called Hard To Understand, and like everyone else right now, he’s finding new ways to cope with our current pandemic. We talk about the jazz scene in Prague, the value of building a local scene, recording the latest album, and much more. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! I’d also like to thank the sponsors who have supported us over the months an...2020-05-1449 min
Contrabass ConversationsAndrew Goins on the Texas Online Bass CampAndrew Goins has been hard at work since the pandemic hit. He recently launched the Texas Double Bass Academy, which is dedicated to the online education of the pre-college double bass student, and he has been putting together a compelling offering with many of Texas’ most renowned bass teachers. This new organization will host the Texas Double Bass Academy Online Camp this June 1-4. This camp is made for students entering grades 9-12, and it is not limited to Texas residents. The clinician lineup is incredible: George Amorim Andrew Goins Nick Scales Dennis Whittaker ...2020-05-1255 min
Contrabass ConversationsRyan Roberts on podcastingRyan Roberts is a freelance bassist in Los Angeles and is the founder of The Bass Shed, which is focused on learning the language of music from legendary bassists and other instrumentalists. We chat about many topics, including the COVID-19 pandemic and how it is affecting his work life, the impetus to start The Bass Shed and how he is incorporating it into his schedule, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to check out Ryan on YouTube, his site, and his podcast. Also, check out my appearance on his podcast here! Listen...2020-05-111h 02
Contrabass ConversationsElisa Janson Jones on online learningWe’re chatting with past podcast guest Elisa Janson Jones today. I had the chance to spend some time in person with her during the NAMM Show in January 2020, and I was interested in learning about how she has been handling the current pandemic, with its many challenges and opportunities. Elisa wears many hats: entrepreneur, author, educator, host of the Music Ed Mentor Podcast, and the founder of the International Music Education Summit. We cover all kinds of online teaching topics in this helpful conversation, which Elisa also published on her podcast. Enjoy! List...2020-05-0749 min
Contrabass ConversationsElsen Price on diverse projectsIt was a real pleasure having Sydney bassist Elsen Price back on the podcast to talk about his recent projects. Elsen was been up to a lot just before the global pandemic hit, including: a world tour throughout Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the UK his solo album Descent of the Free (ABC Jazz/ Universal) Eishan Ensemble Ephemera Ensemble Masha's Legacy Paul Cutlan String Project Marais Project Sonya Holowell and Elsen Price We also play a couple of excerpts from Elsen’s recent album Descent of the Free. Enjoy! I’d also l...2020-05-0441 min
Contrabass ConversationsHugh Sung on online teachingWhen I saw a couple of recent projects that Hugh Sung had been working on since the pandemic hit, I knew that I had to have him back on the podcast and talk through what he was doing. Hugh Sung is one of the most creative people I know when it comes to harnessing the power of technology to enhance our music teaching. As co-founder of the excellent AirTurn foot pedal, Hugh has inspired me for years. We dig into a number of topics, including Hugh’s Online Virtual Chorus and Orchestra Project, the collaborative shee...2020-04-3039 min
Contrabass ConversationsMorgan Daly of ContraCoverIt was an absolute pleasure having Morgan Daly on the podcast! In addition to a busy performing life, active teaching schedule, and working for the education program for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Morgan has created a really cool product called the ContraCover. We talk about all the features of this cool bass cover, moments when I really wished I’d had one of these, Morgan’s many projects, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to follow her on Instagram also! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! I’d...2020-04-2744 min
Contrabass ConversationsDmitry Gorodetsky on reinventing himselfWe’re featuring Dmitry Gorodetsky on today’s podcast. Dmitry has been on the road constantly since moving to LA a little over 4 years ago, working with Charlie Puth and many other artists. Recently, his work has shifted more toward studio work, and he has been transforming himself into an artist working on dates for film, commercials, TV, and the like. He has been splitting his time between the electric and upright, working on projects with Kanye West, Dionne Warwick, recording for the Grammys, and many other artists. We get into the specifics of these projec...2020-04-2359 min
Contrabass ConversationsChristian Fabian on a life in jazzToday we’re featuring Christian Fabian, the longtime bassist for the Lionel Hampton Big Band. We spent some time in person together during the 2020 Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival. Born in Sweden and raised in Germany, Christian attended Berklee College of Music on a full scholarship. Through Brian Bromberg, one of his early mentors, Christian became the bassist for the Lionel Hampton Band. He currently serves as co-leader of the New Lionel Hampton Band featuring Jason Marsalis, and he also co-founded the Native Jazz Quartet. We talk about Christian’s long association with the Lionel Hampton Jazz F...2020-04-201h 10
Contrabass ConversationsEleanor Martindale on RCR Bass CampWe’re chatting with Eleanor Martindale about the third annual RCR Double Bass Camp, which will be coming up August 17-22 in the south of France. We talk about how the camp is organized, Lorraine Campet, Bernard Salles, Alberto Bocini, Giuseppe Ettorre, and all the other teachers that will be there, and much more. Enjoy, and you can learn more about the RCR Double Bass Camp on their website and Facebook page! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! I’d also like to thank the s...2020-04-1631 min
Contrabass ConversationsDennis Whittaker on Incredibly Useful ExercisesHouston Grand Opera principal bassist and University of Houston bass faculty Dennis Whittaker recently launched a YouTube Channel called Incredibly Useful Exercises. Dennis has 45 of his favorite exercises that he is putting on YouTube and also into a series of 16 volumes plus an appendix. He rates each exercise on a scale of 1-5 for the following attributes: Control Mindfulness Expression Power Velocity Coordination Endurance We dig into his inspiration for the project, efficiency, and mindfulness while practicing, and much more. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kin...2020-04-1336 min
Contrabass ConversationsBrian Bromberg on drums, education, and recording a bassBrian Bromberg has been on my “to interview” list for years, and it finally happened in person at the 2019 Golden Gate Bass Camp. In this conversation, we talk about Brian’s early career, lessons learned from drums and how starting with drums affected his bass playing, what most people don’t know about recording a bass, and much more. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: D'Addario Strings This episode is brought to you by D’Addario Strings! Chec...2019-09-1628 min
Contrabass ConversationsLarry Hutchinson on a life in musicLarry Hutchinson recently retired from the Detroit Symphony after 34 years in the bass section. A leading proponent of double bass education in the state of Michigan, Larry has organized countless bass events over the years. He has also served on the faculties of Western Michigan University and Wayne State University and is in demand nationally as a clinician. We chat with Larry about his career, life in the Detroit Symphony, staying inspired as an orchestral section member, and much more. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! C...2019-08-1537 min
Contrabass ConversationsBrett Shurtliffe on auditions and winter adventuresBrett Shurtliffe is the Associate Principal Bassist of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. Brett is a former student of the Eastman School of Music, where he studied with James VanDemark, and of Duquesne University, where he studied with Jeffrey Turner. In 2003, Brett was the Top American Prizewinner at the International Society of Bassists Solo Competition, and two years later took 1st Prize at the ISB Orchestral Competition. Other honors include 1st Prize PADEASTA Solo Competition, and Top Honors for Double Bass at the National ASTA Solo Competition. Brett and I caught up at the 2019 International Society of...2019-08-1235 min
Contrabass ConversationsHector Tirado on proprioceptionHector Tirado can’t hear, but uses the the technique of proprioception to play the double bass by feeling the vibrations of the double bass through his skin. He has presented at several International Society of Bassists conventions, and he has a great collection of videos on his YouTube Channel demonstrating how he plays the bass Here’s a video of Hector playing the introduction of the Bach Chorale meine freude. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: D'Ad...2019-08-0114 min
Contrabass ConversationsTom Knific on creative careersTom Knific leads a full life as a bassist, composer, and educator. He has taught at Western Michigan University since 1987 and was appointed Director of Jazz Studies in 2000. He is also extremely active as a composer and touring musician. Tom has also been involved in the double bass community for many years as a past president of the International Society of Bassists and host of the 2005 ISB Convention. We sat down with Tom at the 2019 ISB Convention to talk about his career, the bass community, composing, and much more. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conv...2019-07-2933 min
Contrabass ConversationsAudrey Jo Williams on teachingAudrey Jo Williams is the owner of Music with Audrey and teaches string lessons in Bloomington, Indiana. We had the chance to sit down with her at the 2019 International Society of Bassists Convention and chat about her career, teaching, starting a business, and more. Enjoy, and learn more about Audrey and what she does through the following links: student testimonials bass videos Music with Audrey on Facebook Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: D'Addario Strings This episode is...2019-07-2508 min
Contrabass ConversationsClaus Freudenstein and UNIOClaus Freudenstein has recently released a new album with the Bassmonsters called UNIO. Learn more in this short chat with Claus live from the 2019 International Society of Bassists Convention, and check out the video version here. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: D'Addario Strings This episode is brought to you by D’Addario Strings! Check out their Zyex strings, which are synthetic core strings that produce an extremely warm, rich sound. Get the sound and feel of gut strings with...2019-07-2207 min
Contrabass ConversationsMaggie Cox on the PAGE ProjectMaggie Cox is an undergraduate student at Rice University and co-authored an article last year which sparked controversy in the double bass world. This article led to the creation of the Project for All Gender Equality, which is focused on the unique experiences of gender minorities in the bass community. We chat about this and more in this engaging conversation live from the 2019 International Society of Bassists Convention with Maggie. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: D'Addario Strings...2019-07-1135 min
Contrabass ConversationsJoel Braun and Jeremy Kurtz-Harris on growth and developmentJoel Braun is taking over at the University of Texas at Austin as bass professor, and he joined me and San Diego Symphony principal bass Jeremy Kurtz-Harris for a freewheeling conversation on competitions, auditions, learning modalities, living in an age of distraction, and much more. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: D'Addario Strings This episode is brought to you by D’Addario Strings! Check out their Zyex strings, which are synthetic core strings that produce an extremely warm, rich sou...2019-07-0853 min
Contrabass ConversationsJay Starkes on Lisle Atkinson and the Neo Bass EnsembleJay Starkes and I caught up live at the 2019 International Society of Bassists Convention to chat about the passing of his friend, colleague, and mentor Lisle Atkinson. Jay discusses the wealth of musical collaborations that Lisle experienced in his life and the memorial concert being planned for fall 2019 to commemorate his life and artistic contributions. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: D'Addario Strings This episode is brought to you by D’Addario Strings! Check out their Zyex str...2019-07-0514 min
Contrabass ConversationsLongevity and the BassistToday’s episode was recorded live at the 2019 International Society of Bassists Convention with Dr. Randy Kertz, Chi-chi Nwanoku, John Patitucci, and Steve Bailey about how to stay healthy on the bass as you age. Enjoy! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: D'Addario Strings This episode is brought to you by D’Addario Strings! Check out their Zyex strings, which are synthetic core strings that produce an extremely warm, rich sound. Get the sound and feel of gut s...2019-06-201h 06
Contrabass ConversationsCareer Advice panel discussionToday’s episode features a Q&A panel with several clinicians from the 2019 Chicago Bass Festival. A big thanks goes to Liz Clawson for actually amplifying this panel discussion - I never got my acts together enough to make that happen The audience questions didn’t get caught on the microphone, but Liz restates most of the questions, and I break in to let you know what they asked a few times as well Moderator: Liz Clawson Panel: Jason Heath Tracy Rowell, Oberlin Conservatory James VanDemark, Eastman School of Music Sara...2019-04-1153 minContrabass ConversationsAligning Life's ActivitiesToday’s solo show covers techniques to help align all the various projects you are involved in, and how one project and inspire and help another. Link mentioned: Gretchen Rubin’s “four personalities” quiz Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: The Bass Violin Shop The Bass Violin Shop offers the Southeast’s largest inventory of laminate, hybrid and carved double basses. Whether you are in search of the best entry-level laminate, or a fine pedigree instrument, there is always a...2019-03-1440 min
Contrabass ConversationsGrace Lewis on the ISBWe’re chatting about the International Society of Bassists today with past podcast guest and Houston-area double bass teacher Grace Lewis. Learn more about the ISB and join today by following this link. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: Steve Swan String Bass Steve Swan String Bass features the West Coast’s largest selection of double basses between Los Angeles and Canada. Located in Burlingame, just south of San Francisco, their large retail showroom holds about 70 basses on display. Their n...2019-02-2506 min
Contrabass ConversationsLindsay Lam on the ISBWe’re chatting about the International Society of Bassists today with ISB member and Virginia-based double bass teacher Lindsay Lam. Learn more about the ISB and join today by following this link. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: Steve Swan String Bass Steve Swan String Bass features the West Coast’s largest selection of double basses between Los Angeles and Canada. Located in Burlingame, just south of San Francisco, their large retail showroom holds about 70 basses on display. Their new bas...2019-02-2123 min
Contrabass ConversationsPatricia Weitzel on the ISBWe’re chatting about the International Society of Bassists today with ISB Membership Chair Patricia Weitzel. Learn more about the ISB and join today by following this link. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: Steve Swan String Bass Steve Swan String Bass features the West Coast’s largest selection of double basses between Los Angeles and Canada. Located in Burlingame, just south of San Francisco, their large retail showroom holds about 70 basses on display. Their new basses all feature profess...2019-02-1809 min
Contrabass ConversationsUpton BassOne of my all-time top interview requests has been to chat with Gary Upton and Eric Roy of Upton Bass. As I was booking my trip to New York City, I knew that spending a day at the Upton barn in Mystic, Connecticut was a must-do. Eric, Gary, and I had a great conversation about all kinds of things, like the unconventional way in which they established Upton Bass, how the company grew from selling bass accessories to building over 120 basses a year, staying ahead of various online trends in the bass world, the story behind designing a...2018-10-1158 minContrabass Conversations[BONUS] Jason Heath on Mind Over Finger PodcastThis bonus episode features Jason Heath on the wonderful new Mind Over Finger podcast. Be sure to subscribe to Mind Over Finger wherever you get your podcasts, and follow along with Renee's conversations on Facebook also.2018-09-211h 21
Contrabass ConversationsCarbon Fiber SoundpostsAnima Nova carbon fiber sound posts have been getting a lot of attention recently in the double bass world. I had the chance to sit down with Pal Molnar of Anima Nova at the 2018 European Bass Congress to dig into the details bout this new type of sound post and the advantages that it can offer. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iOS, Android, and Kindle! Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by: Kolstein Music The Samuel Kolstein Violin Shop was founded by Samuel Kolstein in 1943 as a Vio...2018-09-0616 min
Contrabass ConversationsVibrato with Vassilis PapavassiliouVassilis Papavassiliou has been on my “to interview” list for years, and it was a treat to sit down with him over a coffee at the 2018 European Bass Congress and discuss his current topic of research: vibrato. Vassilis has presented a session on vibrato at past bass conventions, and I learned a lot chatting with him about the topic. He also has an outstanding online resource on vibrato which s a must-read for any bass player, with great video examples and detailed description about the mechanics and aesthetics of vibrato. Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our fr...2018-09-0333 min
Contrabass ConversationsHagai Bilitzky on Middle Eastern bassI’ve been looking forward to having Hagai Bilitzky on the podcast for years, and it was great to be able to sit down with him in person at the 2018 European Bass Congress and dig into his explorations of Middle Eastern music on the bass. Hagai has a wealth of information regarding Middle Eastern music on his website, and this is must-read material for any bassist interested in exploring this world. Be sure to check out his articles, videos, blog, CD, and his soon-to-come book! Listen to Contrabass Conversations with our free app for iO...2018-08-3028 min
Contrabass Conversations516: Jennifer Downing Olsson and her musical journeyI first met Jennifer Downing Olsson back in the early 2000s. She was playing in the Civic Orchestra of Chicago at the time, and we also ended up playing in the Spoleto USA Festival in Charleston, South Carolina. It has been great watching her career unfold. Jennifer moved to Sweden several year ago to play in the Gothenburg Symphony, and she recently took a new position with the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra. She also returns to Chicago each summer to play in the Grant Park Symphony. Jennifer and I got together in pe...2018-08-2742 min
Contrabass ConversationsEdwin LivingstonI’ve been a fan of Edwin Livingston’s bass playing ever since hearing him play with Natalie Cole several years ago. Edwin is one of the most in-demand bassists working today, having worked Elvin Jones, Ellis, Delfeayo, and Jason Marsalis, The Headhunters, and dozens of other familiar names. Edwin and I cover a lot of territory, including: growing up in Dallas early influences in his musical development how singing and saxophone eventually led him to the bass his journey to Austin, New Orleans, and Los Angeles and what he learned along the way what it’s like...2018-08-091h 02
Contrabass ConversationsDavid Heyes interviews Jason HeathToday's episode features a "turn-the-tables" interview with David Heyes of recitalmusic.net. We dig into topics like: Jason's career trajectory teaching bass making a life in music through multiple projects the evolution of double bass over the decades why Jason started the podcast continuing to learn as we get older Thank you so much to David for doing this! Thanks to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by D’Addario Strings! Check out their Helicore strings, which are are designed, engineered, and crafted at the D’Addario string factory in New York...2017-01-1947 min
Contrabass ConversationsGet your copy of Winning the Audition now!I’m so thrilled to announce that Winning the Audition is now available! You can get it in paperback, ebook, and Kindle formats, and links to all of this are available at winningtheaudition.net. More formats (including audiobook) coming soon! Today's episode covers: what people are saying about the book Ira Gold's complete foreword to Winning the Audition (it's great!) highlights from all four episodes of the Winning the Audition podcast series What people are saying about Winning the Audition: "Professor Larry Hurst likes to say 'orchestras are the largest employers of musicians in the world,' As...2016-11-1735 min
Contrabass ConversationsMy New Book!I'm thrilled to announce that my new book Winning the Audition will launch on Thursday, November 17th. This book expands on the content provided in the Winning the Audition podcast series. You'll learn: Why thinking of your audition preparation as a scientific experiment unlocks your potential. How charting your audition progress keeps you from making the same mistakes repeatedly. How you can take your auditioning to the next level through changes in mindset. Why auditioning is a skill that can be mastered. Visit winningtheaudition.net to pre-order your copy. You can also sign up for bonus content fro...2016-11-1013 min