Contrabass Conversations

In this episode, Jason Heath interviews Rodney Slatford. Rodney is joined by his friend Mike Coombs, who helped facilitate this conversation. Together, they explore Rodney's remarkable career as a performer, educator, publisher, and advocate for the double bass. As founding Chairman of the Yorke Trust, Rodney Slatford has established himself as a renowned double bass player and teacher. His career includes over 1000 performances worldwide, 30 years with the Nash Ensemble of London, 10 years as co-principal bassist with the English Chamber Orchestra, and recording one of the first solo bass discs with the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields. In 1978, he founded the Isle of Man International Double Bass Competition and Workshop. Rodney served as Head of the School of Strings at the Royal Northern College of Music (1984-2001) before retiring to Norfolk to focus on the Yorke Trust and personal interests. Learn more about Rodney and the great work he is doing with the Yorke Trust here. Connect with DBHQ Join Our Newsletter Double Bass Resources Double Bass Sheet Music Double Bass Merch Gear used to record this podcast Zoom H6 studio 8-Track 32-Bit Float Handy Recorder Rode Podmic Sony Alpha 7 IV Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM Lens When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here. theme music by Eric Hochberg

Tim Rinehart is the Principal Double Bassist of the Oregon Symphony. A graduate of Rice University's Shepherd School of Music, Tim studied with Paul Ellison while also earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. He is the winner of the 2025 International Society of Bassists Orchestral Division Competition and has performed with numerous prestigious orchestras including the Boston Symphony, London Symphony, and Houston Symphony. Tim shares his journey through multiple auditions in a single season, revealing the breakthrough preparation strategies that led to winning his current. He discusses mental performance techniques, systematic practice methods, committee expectations, his education with Paul Ellison at Rice University, and his new role with the Oregon Symphony. Connect with Tim: Website Instagram YouTube Oregon Symphony profile Connect with DBHQ: Join Our Newsletter Double Bass Resources Double Bass Sheet Music Double Bass Merch Gear used to record this podcast: Zoom H6 studio 8-Track 32-Bit Float Handy Recorder Rode Podmic Sony Alpha 7 IV Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM Lens   When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ.   Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here. Theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this episode, we speak with composer and flutist Dr. Sarah Bassingthwaighte about her groundbreaking Concerto for Double Bass and Orchestra, recently recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra with soloist Stephen Schermer. We dig into Sarah's approach to composition, the experience of writing this piece, balancing a solo bass with a full orchestra, and much more. Enjoy, and check out the sheet music for this cool new piece in our store!   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect With Us Join Our Newsletter - https://jason-heath-llc.ck.page/double-bass-news Double Bass Resources: https://doublebasshq.com/ Double Bass Sheet Music: https://shop.doublebasshq.com/ Double Bass Merch: https://shop.doublebasshq.com/collections/merch   Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!   Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here. theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this episode, Charles Gambetta introduces his innovative bass position system that addresses traditional limitations in fingerboard comprehension. His method combines Roman numerals with Arabic numbers to provide contextual information that enhances physical and mental connections during play. Charles explains how starting students at the 'primary lock' position and focusing on finger placement and shift intervals improves intonation. He also demonstrates how this approach benefits various playing styles and has transformed his teaching approach. Enjoy, and be sure to check out Charles’ article on this approach in the New York ASTA Journal.   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!   Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here.   theme music by Eric Hochberg

Winston "Jack" Budrow, former ISB board member, passed away on September 4, 2024, at age 79 after a brief hospice stay. Jack retired from Michigan State University's College of Music, where he served as professor of double bass and co-chair of the string area. His distinguished career encompassed both performance and teaching, including positions with the Houston Symphony and as principal bass in the North Carolina Symphony. His students have secured positions in prestigious orchestras worldwide, from Atlanta to Oslo. During summers, Jack also taught at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. For his exceptional teaching, Jack received Michigan's 2014 String Teacher of the Year award from the American String Teachers Association and the ISB's 2017 Special Recognition Award for Teaching. He will be remembered for his joyful presence and rollicking humor. This interview was conducted by John Grillo and Jason Heath in 2008, and a partial transcript of the interview is available here.   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!   Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here. theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this episode, we're joined by Gaelen McCormick, President of the International Society of Bassists, to discuss her groundbreaking book Teaching Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass: Historical and Modern Pedagogical Practices, co-authored with Dijana Ihas and Miranda Wilson. Gaelen shares insights on the historical development of bass pedagogy and how teaching methods have evolved over centuries. We explore the fascinating evolution of bass pedagogy from 1800 to the present day, with special focus on how George Vance and Hal Robinson's Double Bass Project revolutionized bass education. We also discuss the valuable transferable skills that musicians develop through bass playing and apply to other professional contexts, along with examining the significant leap forward in teaching methodologies that has occurred since 2000.   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us: all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!   Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here. theme music by Eric Hochberg

In today's episode, Trevor Jones and Jason explore the joys and terrors of subbing in the high-stakes world of musical theater. Read the transcription of this interview with other helpful links and resources. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this episode, my wife, Courtney, and I share our exciting experiences from the recent Biarritz International Bass Academy in the beautiful coastal town of Biarritz, France. We discuss the unique atmosphere of this bass event and explore why gatherings like this are invaluable for musicians at all levels. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us: all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!   Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here.   theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this special episode, Jason Heath shares three personal memories of the legendary double bassist Gary Karr, who passed away this summer. Gary Karr was widely regarded as the world's leading solo bassist who elevated the double bass as a solo instrument during his illustrious career.   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!   Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here. theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this episode, we're joined by UK-based double bassist Olie Brice, a prominent voice in the world of free jazz and improvised music. Olie shares his musical journey, practice approaches, and experiences as a touring bassist working with renowned artists like Evan Parker and Tony Malaby. This episode offers valuable insights for bassists interested in improvised music, as well as listeners curious about the creative process behind free jazz and the practical aspects of life as a touring musician. Links and Resources: Olie Brice's Official Website Olie's New Album on Bandcamp Olie Brice on YouTube Follow Olie on Instagram (@oliebricebass)   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this episode, we welcome back David Cutler to discuss his new book, "The Savvy Musician 2.0: Amplifying Impact, Income, & Inspiration" (Oxford University Press, July 2025). David shares insights from this comprehensive resource on music careers and entrepreneurship, featuring over 150 case studies of diverse performers, creators, educators, and institutions. Episode Highlights: Evolution from the original "The Savvy Musician" to the new 2.0 version Key strategies for musicians looking to amplify their impact in today's music landscape How artists can diversify income streams in the changing music economy Notable case studies from the book's 150+ featured artists and organizations Practical advice for standing out in a competitive field Innovative approaches to music entrepreneurship The importance of legacy-building for modern musicians About David Cutler David Cutler serves as Distinguished Professor of Music Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of South Carolina. As a multi-genre pianist and composer, he brings practical experience to his work as a speaker, consultant, and what he calls an "Innovation GAME Master." His groundbreaking first book, "The Savvy Musician," helped shape a generation of artists in their approach to careers in music. Resources Mentioned: The Savvy Musician 2.0: Amplifying Impact, Income, & Inspiration (Amazon) CBC 145: David Cutler and The Savvy Musician (Previous interview) Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us: all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

This episode features a conversation with Renée-Paule Gauthier, host of the "Mind Over Finger" podcast and a successful violinist who recently won a position in the Lyric Opera of Chicago. We reminisce about past interactions and discuss the power of podcasting and coaching in providing continuous learning and personal growth. Renée shares her journey of integrating disciplined scheduling into her life, balancing her career as a musician while delving into coaching. The discussion explores the importance of adaptability, leveraging strengths, embracing an abundance mindset, and finding personalized approaches to practicing and audition preparation. Renée emphasizes the value of self-exploration and trusting the process rather than constantly seeking external validation and information. Enjoy, and learn more about Renée's podcast and coaching program here!   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsors! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg  

In this episode, we speak with acclaimed double bassist James VanDemark about his remarkable musical journey to Ukraine, where he recently premiered two new works with the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Theodore Kuchar. We discuss the commissioning and premiering of two new concerti by Ukrainian composers Maksim Kolomiiets and Mykhailo Shved as part of Lviv's 44th Virtuosos International Festival. We explore the dramatic story behind creating these works during wartime, James' personal connection to Ukraine dating back to his teenage years in Ontario, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to learn more about these commissions in this article from The Strad and musical examples as well.   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

Today's episode features UK-based bassist Phil Donnelly. Phil is an active performer on London's West End and recently released a video for D'Addario about how to record a double bass on any budget. We dig into the benefits of having your own studio space, how Phil has navigated London's theater world, his relationship to practicing, avoiding burnout, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to give Phil a follow on Instagram! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

Today's episode features acclaimed bassist Brandon Lopez discussing his unique approach to the double bass, his collaborative experiences, and his journey developing a distinctive musical voice. From performing with the New York Philharmonic to playing in DIY Brooklyn basements, Lopez has worked alongside luminaries across jazz, classical, poetry, and experimental music. We explore the physical and intellectual aspects of bass performance, how he collaborates with other artists, life on the road, and much more. Enjoy, and be sure to follow Brandon on Instagram and check out his 2023 solo record and Revision with Fred Moten.   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

Lorraine Campet is recognized as one of the most talented double bassists of her generation. A passionate musician who embraces her profession fully, she thrives equally in chamber music, orchestral performance, and sharing her passion for the violin and double bass. She recently released her debut album Ames soeurs, which has garnered critical acclaim. We explore Lorraine's musical background, her process for selecting pieces for this album, her experiences playing both violin and bass, and much more. Listen to Ames soeurs on your favorite streaming service, and follow Lorraine on her website, Instagram, and YouTube!   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this mini episode, we explore tonal comparisons of mutes crafted from various woods with Sienna George. Be sure to follow Sienna on Instagram and check out her past podcast appearance from 2022. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

Acclaimed double bassist and composer Xavier Foley recently made his recital debut at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco. During his visit, he generously made time to chat for the podcast and brought his bass along to perform. In this episode, we explore Xavier's background, compositional process, and much more. Watch the video version on YouTube, and discover his exceptional playing, sheet music, bows, and other offerings on his website, Instagram, and YouTube Channel!   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

Double bassist and educator Kate Jones has just published her first book. Titled "Scotland Through the (St)Ages," this resource explores the concept of deep review through a familiar and simple tune—presenting 84 variations on the classic melody "Scotland's Burning." We explore the inspiration behind this book, the creative process of putting it together, and how teachers, students, and professionals can incorporate it into their musical practice. Enjoy! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg

Katie Thiroux recently released "Always but Never Alone," her first solo album featuring voice and bass. This intimate recording explores a wide array of genres through creative and diverse arrangements. We delve into the story behind the album, motherhood, and much more in this episode. Enjoy, and be sure to check out "Always but Never Alone" on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you listen to music! Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today! theme music by Eric Hochberg