Contrabass Conversations » John Grillo http://contrabassconversations.com double bass podcast Mon, 14 Nov 2011 04:12:55 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.2 Copyright © Contrabass Conversations 2011 jsh177@yahoo.com (Contrabass Conversations) jsh177@yahoo.com (Contrabass Conversations) 1440 http://contrabassconversations.com/wp-content/plugins/podpress/images/powered_by_podpress.jpg Contrabass Conversations http://contrabassconversations.com 144 144 double bass podcast Contrabass Conversations Contrabass Conversations jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 141: David Grossman interview http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/10/03/cbc-141-david-grossman-interview/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/10/03/cbc-141-david-grossman-interview/#comments Sat, 03 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=391 David Grossman.png

This week’s episode of Contrabass Conversations features an interview with double bassist David Grossman, a member of the New York Philharmonic bass section and an active jazz bassist. Hosted by John Grillo, this interview covers David’s early musical experiences, his dual interest in jazz and classical music, current projects, his philosophy and approach as a teacher, and a variety of other topics.

About David:

Bassist David J. Grossman began playing with the New York Philharmonic as its youngest member in December 1999 before graduating from The Juilliard School in May 2000. Born and educated in New York City, Mr. Grossman has performed as double bassist and pianist in orchestral, chamber, and jazz venues worldwide. He is a member of the double bass faculties of the Manhattan School of Music and The Juilliard School, and regularly gives master classes across the country. (view complete bio)

Tracks featured:

  • Thirds The Charm – from The Bass Of Both Worlds Jazz (iTunes link)
  • Janacek: Pohadka (Fairy Tale) Mvt. 3 – from The Bass Of Both Worlds Classical (iTunes link)

More information on David’s recordings is available on his website davidjgrossman.com.

Other John Grillo-hosted podcasts:

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/10/03/cbc-141-david-grossman-interview/feed/ 0 0:00:01 This week’s episode of Contrabass Conversations features an interview with double bassist David Grossman, a member of the New York Philharmonic bass section and an active jazz bassist. Hosted by John Grillo, this interview covers David[...] This week’s episode of Contrabass Conversations features an interview with double bassist David Grossman, a member of the New York Philharmonic bass section and an active jazz bassist. Hosted by John Grillo, this interview covers David’s early musical experiences, his dual interest in jazz and classical music, current projects, his philosophy and approach as a teacher, and a variety of other topics. About David: Bassist David J. Grossman began playing with the New York Philharmonic as its youngest member in December 1999 before graduating from The Juilliard School in May 2000. Born and educated in New York City, Mr. Grossman has performed as double bassist and pianist in orchestral, chamber, and jazz venues worldwide. He is a member of the double bass faculties of the Manhattan School of Music and The Juilliard School, and regularly gives master classes across the country. (view complete bio) Tracks featured: Thirds The Charm – from The Bass Of Both Worlds Jazz (iTunes link) Janacek: Pohadka (Fairy Tale) Mvt. 3 – from The Bass Of Both Worlds Classical (iTunes link) More information on David’s recordings is available on his website davidjgrossman.com. Other John Grillo-hosted podcasts: Ed Barker interview The State of the Orchestra Differences in Opera and Orchestra Playing Opera Excerpt Breakdown Orchestral Excerpt Breakdown Owen Lee interview Max Dimoff interview Dan Krekeler interview Ranaan Meyer interview Lawrence Hurst interview Jack Budrow interview Barrie Kolstein interview John Grillo Recital Showcase John Grillo interview jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 120: Ed Barker interview http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/06/06/cbc-120-ed-barker-interview/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/06/06/cbc-120-ed-barker-interview/#comments Sat, 06 Jun 2009 11:00:56 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/06/06/cbc-120-ed-barker-interview/ Ed Barker.png

We’re featuring Boston Symphony Principal Bassist Ed Barker on this week’s Contrabass Conversations episode. Conducted by Contrabass Conversations co-host John Grillo, this episode features John chatting with Ed about his early years on the bass, his schooling and time spent in the Chicago Symphony prior to his appointment with the Boston Symphony, and in-depth look at articulation on the bass, and a discussion on practicing. We hope you enjoy this conversation with this modern master performer and teacher of the double bass!

About Ed Barker:

Edwin Barker is recognized as one of the most gifted bassists on the American concert scene. Acknowledged as an accomplished solo and ensemble player, Mr. Barker has concertized in North America, Europe, and the Far East.

Edwin Barker has performed and recorded with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Symphony Chamber Players, and with the contemporary music ensemble Collage, a Boston – based contemporary music ensemble, and is a frequent guest performer with the Boston Chamber Music Society. Mr. Barker gave the world premiere of James Yannatos’ Concerto for Contrabass and Chamber Orchestra and of Theodore Antoniou’s Concertino for Contrabass and Chamber Orchestra ; he was the featured soloist in the New England premiere of Gunther Schuller’s Concerto for Double Bass and Chamber Orchestra, conducted by the composer with The Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra.

Mr. Barker graduated with honors from the New England Conservatory in 1976, where he studied double bass with Henry Portnoi. That same year, while a member of the Chicago Symphony, he was appointed at age 22 to the position of principal double bass of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. His other double bass teachers included Peter Mercurio, Richard Stephan, Angelo LaMariana, and David Perleman.

Mr. Barker was invited to inaugurate the 100th anniversary season of the Boston Symphony Orchestra with a solo performance of the Koussevitzky Bass Concerto; other solo engagements have included appearances at Ozawa Hall (Tanglewood), Carnegie Recital Hall’s “Sweet and Low” series, and at major universities and conferences throughout the world, as well as concerto performances with the Boston Classical Orchestra, the Athens State Orchestra (Greece) and with the Boston Symphony Orchestra in Boston and Europe. He was a featured premiere soloist with the Boston Symphony of John Harbison’s Concerto for Bass Viol and Orchestra at Tanglewood’s 2007 Festival of Contemporary Music.

Mr. Barker is an Associate Professor at the Boston University College of Fine Arts where he teaches double bass, orchestral techniques, and chamber music. His other major teaching affiliations include the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Tanglewood Music Center, where he is Chairman of Instrumental and Orchestral Studies.

Edwin Barker’s solo CD recordings include Three Sonatas for Double Bass, on Boston Records, James Yannatos’ Variations for Solo Contrabass, on Albany Records, and Concerti for Double Bass, on GM Recordings, which includes bass concerti by Gunther Schuller and Theodore Antoniou. Concerti for Contrabass also includes his highly praised performance of Tom Johnson’s Failing , which was recorded live at Harvard University’s Sanders Theater. Edwin Barker’s latest solo offering on CD is a recently released performance of James Yannatos’ Concerto for Contrabass with Collage.

More from John Grillo:

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/06/06/cbc-120-ed-barker-interview/feed/ 0 0:00:01 We’re featuring Boston Symphony Principal Bassist Ed Barker on this week’s Contrabass Conversations episode. Conducted by Contrabass Conversations co-host John Grillo, this episode features John chatting with Ed about his early years on[...] We’re featuring Boston Symphony Principal Bassist Ed Barker on this week’s Contrabass Conversations episode. Conducted by Contrabass Conversations co-host John Grillo, this episode features John chatting with Ed about his early years on the bass, his schooling and time spent in the Chicago Symphony prior to his appointment with the Boston Symphony, and in-depth look at articulation on the bass, and a discussion on practicing. We hope you enjoy this conversation with this modern master performer and teacher of the double bass! About Ed Barker: Edwin Barker is recognized as one of the most gifted bassists on the American concert scene. Acknowledged as an accomplished solo and ensemble player, Mr. Barker has concertized in North America, Europe, and the Far East. Edwin Barker has performed and recorded with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Symphony Chamber Players, and with the contemporary music ensemble Collage, a Boston – based contemporary music ensemble, and is a frequent guest performer with the Boston Chamber Music Society. Mr. Barker gave the world premiere of James Yannatos’ Concerto for Contrabass and Chamber Orchestra and of Theodore Antoniou’s Concertino for Contrabass and Chamber Orchestra ; he was the featured soloist in the New England premiere of Gunther Schuller’s Concerto for Double Bass and Chamber Orchestra, conducted by the composer with The Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra. Mr. Barker graduated with honors from the New England Conservatory in 1976, where he studied double bass with Henry Portnoi. That same year, while a member of the Chicago Symphony, he was appointed at age 22 to the position of principal double bass of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. His other double bass teachers included Peter Mercurio, Richard Stephan, Angelo LaMariana, and David Perleman. Mr. Barker was invited to inaugurate the 100th anniversary season of the Boston Symphony Orchestra with a solo performance of the Koussevitzky Bass Concerto; other solo engagements have included appearances at Ozawa Hall (Tanglewood), Carnegie Recital Hall’s “Sweet and Low” series, and at major universities and conferences throughout the world, as well as concerto performances with the Boston Classical Orchestra, the Athens State Orchestra (Greece) and with the Boston Symphony Orchestra in Boston and Europe. He was a featured premiere soloist with the Boston Symphony of John Harbison’s Concerto for Bass Viol and Orchestra at Tanglewood’s 2007 Festival of Contemporary Music. Mr. Barker is an Associate Professor at the Boston University College of Fine Arts where he teaches double bass, orchestral techniques, and chamber music. His other major teaching affiliations include the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Tanglewood Music Center, where he is Chairman of Instrumental and Orchestral Studies. Edwin Barker’s solo CD recordings include Three Sonatas for Double Bass, on Boston Records, James Yannatos’ Variations for Solo Contrabass, on Albany Records, and Concerti for Double Bass, on GM Recordings, which includes bass concerti by Gunther Schuller and Theodore Antoniou. Concerti for Contrabass also includes his highly praised performance of Tom Johnson’s Failing , which was recorded live at Harvard University’s Sanders Theater. Edwin Barker’s latest solo offering on CD is a recently released performance of James Yannatos’ Concerto for Contrabass with Collage. More from John Grillo: The State of the Orchestra Differences in Opera and Orchestra Playing Opera Excerpt Breakdown Orchestral Excerpt Breakdown Owen Lee Interview Max Dimoff interview Dan Krekeler interview Ranaan Meyer interview Lawrence Hurst interview John Grillo recital showcase John Grillo interview Jack Budrow interview jsh177@yahoo.com no no The State of the Orchestra – new podcast with John Grillo http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/04/23/the-state-of-the-orchestra-new-podcast-with-john-grillo/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/04/23/the-state-of-the-orchestra-new-podcast-with-john-grillo/#comments Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:00:31 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/04/23/the-state-of-the-orchestra-new-podcast-with-john-grillo/ State of the Orchestra 1.png

Double bassist and Contrabass Conversations co-host John Grillo recently recorded in the first of a new series of audio programs about the past, present, and future of the professional symphony orchestra. In this first episode, John interviews me about my book Road Warrior Without an Expense Account, which I hope you’ll find interesting. I also recorded a screencast of my Keynote presentation about this book, which I did in Sioux Falls, South Dakota during the summer of 2008. I wrote the blog posts that this book is based upon in early 2007. Enjoy!

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/04/23/the-state-of-the-orchestra-new-podcast-with-john-grillo/feed/ 0 0:00:01 Double bassist and Contrabass Conversations co-host John Grillo recently recorded in the first of a new series of audio programs about the past, present, and future of the professional symphony orchestra. In this first episode, John interviews me a[...] Double bassist and Contrabass Conversations co-host John Grillo recently recorded in the first of a new series of audio programs about the past, present, and future of the professional symphony orchestra. In this first episode, John interviews me about my book Road Warrior Without an Expense Account, which I hope you’ll find interesting. I also recorded a screencast of my Keynote presentation about this book, which I did in Sioux Falls, South Dakota during the summer of 2008. I wrote the blog posts that this book is based upon in early 2007. Enjoy! jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 112: Max Dimoff interview 2 http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/03/14/cbc-112-max-dimoff-interview-2/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/03/14/cbc-112-max-dimoff-interview-2/#comments Sat, 14 Mar 2009 11:00:19 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/03/14/cbc-112-max-dimoff-interview-2/ Max Dimoff double bass.pngContrabass Conversations Co-host John Grillo from classicalmusicnews.tv and I are concluding our interview with Cleveland Orchestra Principal Bass Max Dimoff this week. Before winning his job with the Cleveland Orchestra, Max served as Principal Bass of the San Antonio Symphony and Section Bass for the Grant Park Symphony and Seattle Symphony.

In this second segment of our interview with Max, we cover the use of rhythms in practicing solo and orchestral music, why he finds warm-up exercises useful, standing versus sitting, and audition preparation advice.

Max’s Warm-Ups

Max Dimoff Warm-Up Packet (PDF)

In addition to serving as Principal Bass with the Cleveland Orchestra, Max is on faculty at the Cleveland Institute of Music along with Jeff Bradetich, his former teacher from Northwestern University. Max and Jeff team teach the CIM bass studio in a very interesting arrangement which we discuss during our interview.

Max’s colleague Jeff Bradetich recently appeared on Contrabass Conversations as well. Here are links both to Jeff’s interview and to Jeff’s own technique packets, which may be interesting to delve into for listeners as well:

More interviews co-hosted by John Grillo:

Links:

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/03/14/cbc-112-max-dimoff-interview-2/feed/ 0 0:00:01 Contrabass Conversations Co-host John Grillo from classicalmusicnews.tv and I are concluding our interview with Cleveland Orchestra Principal Bass Max Dimoff this week. Before winning his job with the Cleveland Orchestra, Max served as Principal Bas[...] Contrabass Conversations Co-host John Grillo from classicalmusicnews.tv and I are concluding our interview with Cleveland Orchestra Principal Bass Max Dimoff this week. Before winning his job with the Cleveland Orchestra, Max served as Principal Bass of the San Antonio Symphony and Section Bass for the Grant Park Symphony and Seattle Symphony. In this second segment of our interview with Max, we cover the use of rhythms in practicing solo and orchestral music, why he finds warm-up exercises useful, standing versus sitting, and audition preparation advice. Max’s Warm-Ups Max Dimoff Warm-Up Packet (PDF) In addition to serving as Principal Bass with the Cleveland Orchestra, Max is on faculty at the Cleveland Institute of Music along with Jeff Bradetich, his former teacher from Northwestern University. Max and Jeff team teach the CIM bass studio in a very interesting arrangement which we discuss during our interview. Max’s colleague Jeff Bradetich recently appeared on Contrabass Conversations as well. Here are links both to Jeff’s interview and to Jeff’s own technique packets, which may be interesting to delve into for listeners as well: Jeff Bradetich interview part 1 Jeff Bradetich interview part 2 Bradetich Technique Packet Bradetich Advanced Technique Packet More interviews co-hosted by John Grillo: Lawrence Hurst – Indiana University Barrie Kolstein – Kolstein & Sons Jack Budrow – Michigan State Owen Lee – Cincinnati Symphony Ranaan Meyer – Time for Three Dan Krekeler – Metropolitan Opera Links: I Fight Dragons (music heard on this show) Jim Goodrich – my co-panelist for the Chicago Music Commission International Society of Bassists – convention in June! String Emporium – advertiser Upton Bass Co. – advertiser jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 109: Max Dimoff interview http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/02/21/cbc-109-max-dimoff-interview/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/02/21/cbc-109-max-dimoff-interview/#comments Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:00:29 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/02/21/cbc-109-max-dimoff-interview/ Max Dimoff Douuble Bass.png

Co-host John Grillo from classicalmusicnews.tv and I are interviewing Cleveland Orchestra Principal Bass Max Dimoff this week on Contrabass Conversations. Before winning his job with the Cleveland Orchestra, Max served as Principal Bass of the San Antonio Symphony and Section Bass for the Grant Park Symphony and Seattle Symphony.

In this first segment of our interview with Max, we delve into his approach to technique on the double bass, focusing on his warm-up exercises for the double bass. You can download this packet through the following link and follow along with the exercises as we discuss them with Max.

Max’s Warm-Ups

Max Dimoff Warm-Up Packet (PDF)

In addition to serving as Principal Bass with the Cleveland Orchestra, Max is on faculty at the Cleveland Institute of Music along with Jeff Bradetich, his former teacher from Northwestern University. Max and Jeff team teach the CIM bass studio in a very interesting arrangement which we discuss during our interview.

Max’s colleague Jeff Bradetich recently appeared on Contrabass Conversations as well. Here are links both to Jeff’s interview and to Jeff’s own technique packets, which may be interesting to delve into for listeners as well:

More interviews co-hosted by John Grillo:

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/02/21/cbc-109-max-dimoff-interview/feed/ 3 CBC 108: Dan Krekeler interview part 2 http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/02/14/cbc-108-dan-krekeler-interview-part-2/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/02/14/cbc-108-dan-krekeler-interview-part-2/#comments Sat, 14 Feb 2009 12:00:39 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/02/14/cbc-108-dan-krekeler-interview-part-2/ Dan Krekeler.png We’re concluding our interview (check out part 1 here) with Metropolitan Opera Orchestra bassist Dan Krekeler this week on the podcast. John Grillo of classicalmusicnews.tv and I co-interviewed Dan, which was particularly cool since we’ve both known Dan for many years. I played with Dan in the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and John went to Indiana University with him as an undergraduate. It’s great to see an old friend have such great professional success, and it was a lot of fun to catch up with Dan and hear about his experiences on the road to a major orchestral position.

In our conversations about audition prep, Dan brings up musician coach Don Greene, and I realized that we’ve never actually talked about Don before on any blog posts or podcasts. This is surprising, since I’m a big fan of Don’s concepts and strategies for successful auditioning, so we’ll have to delve more into that topic at a later date.

If you’re in the mood to learn about the world of opera bass playing, these episodes from our archives would be a good start:

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/02/14/cbc-108-dan-krekeler-interview-part-2/feed/ 0 0:00:01 We’re concluding our interview (check out part 1 here) with Metropolitan Opera Orchestra bassist Dan Krekeler this week on the podcast. John Grillo of classicalmusicnews.tv and I co-interviewed Dan, which was particularly cool since we’ve both know[...] We’re concluding our interview (check out part 1 here) with Metropolitan Opera Orchestra bassist Dan Krekeler this week on the podcast. John Grillo of classicalmusicnews.tv and I co-interviewed Dan, which was particularly cool since we’ve both known Dan for many years. I played with Dan in the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and John went to Indiana University with him as an undergraduate. It’s great to see an old friend have such great professional success, and it was a lot of fun to catch up with Dan and hear about his experiences on the road to a major orchestral position. In our conversations about audition prep, Dan brings up musician coach Don Greene, and I realized that we’ve never actually talked about Don before on any blog posts or podcasts. This is surprising, since I’m a big fan of Don’s concepts and strategies for successful auditioning, so we’ll have to delve more into that topic at a later date. If you’re in the mood to learn about the world of opera bass playing, these episodes from our archives would be a good start: Opera Excerpts Breakdown with John Grillo Jeremy McCoy (asst. principal bass of the Met) interviews Greg Sarchet (Lyric Opera of Chicago) interviews Andy Anderson (Lyric Opera of Chicago) interviews jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 106: Dan Krekeler interview http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/01/31/cbc-106-dan-krekeler-interview/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/01/31/cbc-106-dan-krekeler-interview/#comments Sat, 31 Jan 2009 12:00:42 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/01/31/cbc-106-dan-krekeler-interview/ Dan Krekeler 1.jpg

We’re featuring an interview with Metropolitan Opera Orchestra bassist Dan Krekeler this week on the podcast. John Grillo of classicalmusicnews.tv and I co-interviewed Dan, which was particularly cool since we’ve both known Dan for many years. I played with Dan in the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and John went to Indiana University with him as an undergraduate. It’s great to see an old friend have such great professional success, and it was a lot of fun to catch up with Dan and hear about his experiences on the road to a major orchestral position.

In our conversations about audition prep, Dan brings up musician coach Don Greene, and I realized that we’ve never actually talked about Don before on any blog posts or podcasts. This is surprising, since I’m a big fan of Don’s concepts and strategies for successful auditioning, so we’ll have to delve more into that topic at a later date.

If you’re in the mood to learn about the world of opera bass playing, these episodes from our archives would be a good start:

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2009/01/31/cbc-106-dan-krekeler-interview/feed/ 1 0:00:01 We’re featuring an interview with Metropolitan Opera Orchestra bassist Dan Krekeler this week on the podcast. John Grillo of classicalmusicnews.tv and I co-interviewed Dan, which was particularly cool since we’ve both known Dan for many[...] We’re featuring an interview with Metropolitan Opera Orchestra bassist Dan Krekeler this week on the podcast. John Grillo of classicalmusicnews.tv and I co-interviewed Dan, which was particularly cool since we’ve both known Dan for many years. I played with Dan in the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and John went to Indiana University with him as an undergraduate. It’s great to see an old friend have such great professional success, and it was a lot of fun to catch up with Dan and hear about his experiences on the road to a major orchestral position. In our conversations about audition prep, Dan brings up musician coach Don Greene, and I realized that we’ve never actually talked about Don before on any blog posts or podcasts. This is surprising, since I’m a big fan of Don’s concepts and strategies for successful auditioning, so we’ll have to delve more into that topic at a later date. If you’re in the mood to learn about the world of opera bass playing, these episodes from our archives would be a good start: Opera Excerpts Breakdown with John Grillo Jeremy McCoy (asst. principal bass of the Met) interviews Greg Sarchet (Lyric Opera of Chicago) interviews Andy Anderson (Lyric Opera of Chicago) interviews jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 73: Jack Budrow interview http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/04/05/cbc-73-jack-budrow-interview/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/04/05/cbc-73-jack-budrow-interview/#comments Sat, 05 Apr 2008 13:43:50 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/04/05/cbc-73-jack-budrow-interview/ BudrowWe’re chatting with Michigan State University and Interlochen Arts Academy double bass instructor Jack Budrow this week on Contrabass Conversations. In addition to helping place students in major orchestras across the globe, Jack has had a very distinguished performance career as a former member of the Houston Symphony, Santa Fe Opera Orchestra, and as Principal Bass of the North Carolina Symphony.

Jack discussed several topics of great interest to double bass students and performers with co-host John Grillo and me, including repertoire he uses in his teaching, essential skills for auditioning, and how the educational orientation has changed for music performance students over the past few decades. We chatted at great length with Jack for this interview, and we’ll be wrapping up the remainder of this interview in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for more great content with this influential and engaging music educator and performer in the coming weeks. Enjoy!

About Jack Budrow:

Jack Budrow is professor of music and co-chair of the string area at the Michigan State University College of Music.

He has enjoyed a long and varied career in double bass performance and teaching. Budrow has been a member of the Houston Symphony, and principal bass of the North Carolina Symphony, Santa Fe Opera, and the American National Opera orchestras. A well-known teacher, Budrow’s students play in many of America’s symphony orchestras, including Cincinnati, San Francisco, Atlanta, Houston, Charleston, San Antonio, the Michigan Opera, and the Army Band. Internationally, he has placed students in the Oslo Philharmonic, Israel Philharmonic, Munich Radio Orchestra, and the Caracas Symphony.

Each summer, Budrow teaches at Interlochen Center for the Arts and Indiana University. He serves on the board of directors of the International Society of Double Bassists, and was a judge for their most recent International Solo Bass Competition. Budrow has presented master classes throughout the United States, including the Cleveland Institute, Florida State University, University of Houston, Indiana University, University of Michigan, Peabody Conservatory, and University of Texas. In addition, he served as the bass section coach at the National Orchestral Institute and New World Symphony. Budrow received his B.M. from Bowling Green State University.

Music Provided by:

Special thanks to Daniel Chmielinski for technical assistance – www.carsleuth.net

Show Notes:

Release Date: 4/5/08

Length: 39:53

listen by phone: +1 (360) 227-5632

call our comment line (24 hour voice mail): +1 (206) 666-6509

Website: www.contrabassconversations.com

E-mail: feedback@contrabassconversations.com

Blog: www.doublebassblog.org

Podcast T-shirts, hats, and more: www.cafepress.com/doublebass

MySpace: www.myspace.com/cbcpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17621298264

Theme song by Eric Hochberg: www.erichochberg.com

This show is brought to you by TalkBass.com, the largest community of bassists on the Internet. Join in the conversation at talkbass.com/cbc.

Check out our jazz forums at JazzDoubleBass.com.

Join our Facebook group and share videos, chat on discussion boards, leave ideas for the show, and interact with other bassists!

To get Contrabass Conversations downloaded automatically to your computer (for free!), you can subscribe in iTunes:

Click here to subscribe through e-mail or through another program besides iTunes

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/04/05/cbc-73-jack-budrow-interview/feed/ 5 0:00:01 We’re chatting with Michigan State University and Interlochen Arts Academy double bass instructor Jack Budrow this week on Contrabass Conversations. In addition to helping place students in major orchestras across the globe, Jack has had a ve[...] We’re chatting with Michigan State University and Interlochen Arts Academy double bass instructor Jack Budrow this week on Contrabass Conversations. In addition to helping place students in major orchestras across the globe, Jack has had a very distinguished performance career as a former member of the Houston Symphony, Santa Fe Opera Orchestra, and as Principal Bass of the North Carolina Symphony. Jack discussed several topics of great interest to double bass students and performers with co-host John Grillo and me, including repertoire he uses in his teaching, essential skills for auditioning, and how the educational orientation has changed for music performance students over the past few decades. We chatted at great length with Jack for this interview, and we’ll be wrapping up the remainder of this interview in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for more great content with this influential and engaging music educator and performer in the coming weeks. Enjoy! About Jack Budrow: Jack Budrow is professor of music and co-chair of the string area at the Michigan State University College of Music. He has enjoyed a long and varied career in double bass performance and teaching. Budrow has been a member of the Houston Symphony, and principal bass of the North Carolina Symphony, Santa Fe Opera, and the American National Opera orchestras. A well-known teacher, Budrow’s students play in many of America’s symphony orchestras, including Cincinnati, San Francisco, Atlanta, Houston, Charleston, San Antonio, the Michigan Opera, and the Army Band. Internationally, he has placed students in the Oslo Philharmonic, Israel Philharmonic, Munich Radio Orchestra, and the Caracas Symphony. Each summer, Budrow teaches at Interlochen Center for the Arts and Indiana University. He serves on the board of directors of the International Society of Double Bassists, and was a judge for their most recent International Solo Bass Competition. Budrow has presented master classes throughout the United States, including the Cleveland Institute, Florida State University, University of Houston, Indiana University, University of Michigan, Peabody Conservatory, and University of Texas. In addition, he served as the bass section coach at the National Orchestral Institute and New World Symphony. Budrow received his B.M. from Bowling Green State University. Music Provided by: Eric Hochberg – www.erichochberg.com Special thanks to Daniel Chmielinski for technical assistance – www.carsleuth.net Show Notes: Release Date: 4/5/08 Length: 39:53 listen by phone: +1 (360) 227-5632 call our comment line (24 hour voice mail): +1 (206) 666-6509 Website: www.contrabassconversations.com E-mail: feedback@contrabassconversations.com Blog: www.doublebassblog.org Podcast T-shirts, hats, and more: www.cafepress.com/doublebass MySpace: www.myspace.com/cbcpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17621298264 Theme song by Eric Hochberg: www.erichochberg.com This show is brought to you by TalkBass.com, the largest community of bassists on the Internet. Join in the conversation at talkbass.com/cbc. Check out our jazz forums at JazzDoubleBass.com. Join our Facebook group and share videos, chat on discussion boards, leave ideas for the show, and interact with other bassists! To get Contrabass Conversations downloaded automatically to your computer (for free!), you can subscribe in iTunes: Click here to subscribe through e-mail or through another program besides iTunes jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 72: Barrie Kolstein interview 2 http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/03/29/cbc-72-barrie-kolstein-interview-2/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/03/29/cbc-72-barrie-kolstein-interview-2/#comments Sat, 29 Mar 2008 13:22:56 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/03/29/cbc-72-barrie-kolstein-interview-2/ We’re wrapping up our chat with Barrie Kolstein this week on the Contrabass Conversations show. We began this interview on episode 70 of the program, and in it we discussed Barrie’s father Samuel Kolstein and how he got into the bow making business, the progression into the bass making business, and the development of the Kolstein line of products (including rosin, stings, and cases) that bassists worldwide use today.

Barrie discusses Kolstein rosin, challenges facing modern double bass retailers and luthiers, advice on buying a double bass, and how the business has changed in the past few decades. Visit the Kolstein shop online at www.kolstein.com, and check out our co-host John online at www.classicalmusicnews.tv. Enjoy!

About Barrie Kolstein:

1967-1971 Kolstein basses
State University of New York at Albany
Obtained a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration and Marketing.
1967-1973
Formally studied the Double Bass under the pedagogues: Frederick Zimmermann, Assistant Principal of the New York Philharmonic; Orin O’Brien, New York Philharmonic; Georges Andre, Metropolitan Opera; Robert Gladstone, Principal Bassist Detroit Symphony; Samuel Hollingsworth, Principal Bassist Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra; David Holland, renowned Jazz artist.
1971-1974
Served in formal apprenticeship for instrument and bow restoration, construction and appraisals, under the expert auspices of renowned violin and bow maker, restorer, and appraiser, Samuel Kolstein.
1974-1978
Served as staff instrument and bow restorer as well as making numerous new violin and celli with Samuel Kolstein.
1979
Promoted to head violin master in the shop of Samuel Kolstein.
1981
Assumed full business responsibilities for operating all aspects of Samuel Kolstein & Son, Ltd. and Kolstein Music, Inc.
1981 to present
Head violin maker, restorer, and appraiser with a staff of nine violin makers working under his supervision.

Published numerous technical articles on restoration and appraisals in the International Society of Bassists with feature article published in the Strad, February 1991; presently editor of the “Luthier Corner” in the International Society of Bassists magazine restoration and repair forum; published regularly in the Double Bassist magazine and the Strad magazine, both of London, England, since 1996. These articles have ranged form interviews with makers and performers, technical articles on repair/making, and expert appraisal articles on historic master makers; featured in the violinmaking segment of Robin Lehman’s documentary, Young Peoples Guide to the Orchestra; contacted to appear in the upcoming educational video on “Careers in Music”. On the expert appraisers staff of Art Conservation fine arts adjusters as a String Instrument and Bow Expert.

Barrie Kolstein has completed well over one hundred instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello and Bass Violins) utilized by renowned players including Jeffrey Turner, Pittsburgh Symphony; Robert Gladstone, Detroit Symphony; James Van Demark, Professor of Double Bass Eastman School of Music and world famous soloist; Charles Urbont, Metropolitan Opera; James Clute, Minnesota Symphony Orchestra; David Sheets, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra; Lou Norton, New York Philharmonic; Caitlyn Kamanga, Hong Kong Philharmonic;, Scott Haig, Assistant Principal Bassist, Cleveland Orchestra; Hienrich Joachim, renowned soloist and former member of the New York Philharmonic; Lew Norton, New York Philharmonic; Barbara Yendell, Hong Kong Philharmonic, to name a few! Mr. Kolstein is a member of:

  • Appraisers Association of America, 1994 to present
  • International Society of Bassists, 1979 – present
  • Violin Society of America, 1980 – present
  • Viola Congress, 1983 – present
  • Cello Congress, 1982 – present

Listed in The Violin Makers of the United States, by Thomas J. Wenberg, Mount Hood Publishing Company, 1986.

Learn more about the Kolstein shop at www.kolstein.com

Music Provided by:

Special thanks to Daniel Chmielinski for technical assistance – www.carsleuth.net

Show Notes:

www.kolstein.com – Kolstein Music, Inc. – Kolstein & Son, Ltd
www.musicfreight.com – shipping and musical instrument transport company recommended by Barrie – run by musicians for musicians!
Highly Recommended

Andrew Chilcote (New England Conservatory) wrote
at 5:40pm on March 4th, 2008

douglas mapp makes transcriptions into orchestral/solo tuning of most of the standard repertoire (including the hindemith sonata). There isn’t a midi file of it, but there is a transposed piano part to orchestral tuning
http://www.douglasmappmusic.com/display_transcriptions.php

Ira Gold, a member of the National Symphony bass section and a previous guest on the Contrabass Conversations podcast, is now on faculty at the Catholic University of America’s Benjamin T. Rome School of Music in Washington, D.C.

The school is accepting late applicants for Fall of ‘08. If interested, students can either view information at music.cua.edu or contact Ira directly at irajgold@gmail.com. The school offers Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees and also students have the option of being enrolled part time.

Catholic also welcomes videotapes, DVD’s and CD’s for applicants should they not be able to come to a live audition in the next month or so on such short notice. Contact Ira for more information or visit the website at the above URL.

____________

Release Date: 3/29/08

Length: 68:46

listen by phone: +1 (360) 227-5632

call our comment line (24 hour voice mail): +1 (206) 666-6509

Website: www.contrabassconversations.com

E-mail: feedback@contrabassconversations.com

Blog: www.doublebassblog.org

Podcast T-shirts, hats, and more: www.cafepress.com/doublebass

MySpace: www.myspace.com/cbcpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17621298264

Theme song by Eric Hochberg: www.erichochberg.com

This show is brought to you by TalkBass.com, the largest community of bassists on the Internet. Join in the conversation at talkbass.com/cbc.

Check out our jazz forums at JazzDoubleBass.com.

Join our Facebook group and share videos, chat on discussion boards, leave ideas for the show, and interact with other bassists!

To get Contrabass Conversations downloaded automatically to your computer (for free!), you can subscribe in iTunes:

Click here to subscribe through e-mail or through another program besides iTunes

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/03/29/cbc-72-barrie-kolstein-interview-2/feed/ 0 0:00:01 We’re wrapping up our chat with Barrie Kolstein this week on the Contrabass Conversations show. We began this interview on episode 70 of the program, and in it we discussed Barrie’s father Samuel Kolstein and how he got into the bow making bu[...] We’re wrapping up our chat with Barrie Kolstein this week on the Contrabass Conversations show. We began this interview on episode 70 of the program, and in it we discussed Barrie’s father Samuel Kolstein and how he got into the bow making business, the progression into the bass making business, and the development of the Kolstein line of products (including rosin, stings, and cases) that bassists worldwide use today. Barrie discusses Kolstein rosin, challenges facing modern double bass retailers and luthiers, advice on buying a double bass, and how the business has changed in the past few decades. Visit the Kolstein shop online at www.kolstein.com, and check out our co-host John online at www.classicalmusicnews.tv. Enjoy! About Barrie Kolstein: 1967-1971 State University of New York at Albany Obtained a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration and Marketing. 1967-1973 Formally studied the Double Bass under the pedagogues: Frederick Zimmermann, Assistant Principal of the New York Philharmonic; Orin O’Brien, New York Philharmonic; Georges Andre, Metropolitan Opera; Robert Gladstone, Principal Bassist Detroit Symphony; Samuel Hollingsworth, Principal Bassist Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra; David Holland, renowned Jazz artist. 1971-1974 Served in formal apprenticeship for instrument and bow restoration, construction and appraisals, under the expert auspices of renowned violin and bow maker, restorer, and appraiser, Samuel Kolstein. 1974-1978 Served as staff instrument and bow restorer as well as making numerous new violin and celli with Samuel Kolstein. 1979 Promoted to head violin master in the shop of Samuel Kolstein. 1981 Assumed full business responsibilities for operating all aspects of Samuel Kolstein & Son, Ltd. and Kolstein Music, Inc. 1981 to present Head violin maker, restorer, and appraiser with a staff of nine violin makers working under his supervision. Published numerous technical articles on restoration and appraisals in the International Society of Bassists with feature article published in the Strad, February 1991; presently editor of the “Luthier Corner” in the International Society of Bassists magazine restoration and repair forum; published regularly in the Double Bassist magazine and the Strad magazine, both of London, England, since 1996. These articles have ranged form interviews with makers and performers, technical articles on repair/making, and expert appraisal articles on historic master makers; featured in the violinmaking segment of Robin Lehman’s documentary, Young Peoples Guide to the Orchestra; contacted to appear in the upcoming educational video on “Careers in Music”. On the expert appraisers staff of Art Conservation fine arts adjusters as a String Instrument and Bow Expert. Barrie Kolstein has completed well over one hundred instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello and Bass Violins) utilized by renowned players including Jeffrey Turner, Pittsburgh Symphony; Robert Gladstone, Detroit Symphony; James Van Demark, Professor of Double Bass Eastman School of Music and world famous soloist; Charles Urbont, Metropolitan Opera; James Clute, Minnesota Symphony Orchestra; David Sheets, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra; Lou Norton, New York Philharmonic; Caitlyn Kamanga, Hong Kong Philharmonic;, Scott Haig, Assistant Principal Bassist, Cleveland Orchestra; Hienrich Joachim, renowned soloist and former member of the New York Philharmonic; Lew Norton, New York Philharmonic; Barbara Yendell, Hong Kong Philharmonic, to name a few! Mr. Kolstein is a member of: Appraisers Association of America, 1994 to present International Society of Bassists, 1979 – present Violin Society of America, 1980 – present Viola Congress, 1983 – present Cello Congress, 1982 – present Listed in The Violin Makers of the United States, by Thomas J. Wenberg, Mount Hood Publishing Company, 1986. Learn more about the Kolstein shop at www.kolstein.com Music Provided by: Eric Ho[...] Luthiers jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 63: Chatting About Opera and Orchestra Bass Playing with John Grillo http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/02/07/cbc-63-chatting-about-opera-and-orchestra-bass-playing-with-john-grillo/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/02/07/cbc-63-chatting-about-opera-and-orchestra-bass-playing-with-john-grillo/#comments Thu, 07 Feb 2008 06:05:32 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/02/07/cbc-63-chatting-about-opera-and-orchestra-bass-playing-with-john-grillo/

Contrabass Conversations regular contributor and classicalmusicnews.tv blogger John Grillo and I recorded a follow-up episode to our recent Opera Excerpt Breakdown episode. In this episode we chat a little more generally about opera bass playing and how it differs from orchestral bass playing.

John has played for numerous opera companies in the past, including the Pittsburgh Opera and Spoleto Festival die Due Mondi in Italy. He recently performed Wagner’s Ring Cycle as the only bass player (!). Learn more about John on his Contrabass Conversations page, check out his virtual recital, listen to the Opera Excerpt and Orchestra Excerpt breakdowns, and be sure to visit his blog at classicalmusicnews.tv.

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/02/07/cbc-63-chatting-about-opera-and-orchestra-bass-playing-with-john-grillo/feed/ 4 0:00:01 Contrabass Conversations regular contributor and classicalmusicnews.tv blogger John Grillo and I recorded a follow-up episode to our recent Opera Excerpt Breakdown episode. In this episode we chat a little more generally about opera bass playing a[...] Contrabass Conversations regular contributor and classicalmusicnews.tv blogger John Grillo and I recorded a follow-up episode to our recent Opera Excerpt Breakdown episode. In this episode we chat a little more generally about opera bass playing and how it differs from orchestral bass playing. John has played for numerous opera companies in the past, including the Pittsburgh Opera and Spoleto Festival die Due Mondi in Italy. He recently performed Wagner’s Ring Cycle as the only bass player (!). Learn more about John on his Contrabass Conversations page, check out his virtual recital, listen to the Opera Excerpt and Orchestra Excerpt breakdowns, and be sure to visit his blog at classicalmusicnews.tv. excerpts jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 62: Opera Excerpt Breakdown with John Grillo http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/02/02/cbc-62-opera-excerpt-breakdown-with-john-grillo/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/02/02/cbc-62-opera-excerpt-breakdown-with-john-grillo/#comments Sat, 02 Feb 2008 06:00:24 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/02/02/cbc-62-opera-excerpt-breakdown-with-john-grillo/ This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an in-depth analysis of the double bass opera excerpts most commonly requested at auditions. Double bassist (and regular Contrabass Conversations guest and co-host) John Grillo discusses each of these excerpts–stylistic considerations, differences in articulation and bow strokes, and suggestions for effectively learning them–and then performs them. We believe that this project will be a highly valuable resource for bassists worldwide, and we’d love your feedback on this project!

John and I created an excerpt breakdown for the most commonly requested orchestra excerpts back on CBC 41, and this has proven to be a highly popular and extremely useful resource to double bassists worldwide. Our hope is that this opera excerpt episode will do the same for the less familiar but wonderfully challenging double bass operatic literature.

Learn more about John at his new blog ClassicalMusicNews.tv, and check out all of his older Contrabass Conversations appearances here. You can also check out John in recital on his doublebassblog.org recital page.

Opera excerpts covered on this episode:

  • Strauss
    • Salome
    • Rosenkavalier
  • Wagner
    • Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg
    • Die Walküre
  • Britten
    • Peter Grimes
  • Verdi
    • Otello
    • Rigoletto
    • Falstaff
  • Weber
    • Euryanthe
  • Mozart
    • Magic Flute
    • Marriage of Figaro
  • Beethoven
    • Fidelo
  • Humperdinck
    • Hansel and Gretel
]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2008/02/02/cbc-62-opera-excerpt-breakdown-with-john-grillo/feed/ 8 0:00:01 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an in-depth analysis of the double bass opera excerpts most commonly requested at auditions. Double bassist (and regular Contrabass Conversations guest and co-host) John Grillo discusses each of[...] This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an in-depth analysis of the double bass opera excerpts most commonly requested at auditions. Double bassist (and regular Contrabass Conversations guest and co-host) John Grillo discusses each of these excerpts–stylistic considerations, differences in articulation and bow strokes, and suggestions for effectively learning them–and then performs them. We believe that this project will be a highly valuable resource for bassists worldwide, and we’d love your feedback on this project! John and I created an excerpt breakdown for the most commonly requested orchestra excerpts back on CBC 41, and this has proven to be a highly popular and extremely useful resource to double bassists worldwide. Our hope is that this opera excerpt episode will do the same for the less familiar but wonderfully challenging double bass operatic literature. Learn more about John at his new blog ClassicalMusicNews.tv, and check out all of his older Contrabass Conversations appearances here. You can also check out John in recital on his doublebassblog.org recital page. Opera excerpts covered on this episode: Strauss Salome Rosenkavalier Wagner Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg Die Walküre Britten Peter Grimes Verdi Otello Rigoletto Falstaff Weber Euryanthe Mozart Magic Flute Marriage of Figaro Beethoven Fidelo Humperdinck Hansel and Gretel excerpts jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 55: Owen Lee interview and music http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/12/30/cbc-55-owen-lee-interview-and-music/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/12/30/cbc-55-owen-lee-interview-and-music/#comments Sun, 30 Dec 2007 02:14:14 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=98 We’re chatting with Cincinnati Symphony principal bassist Owen Lee today on Contrabass Conversations. Owen played for the New World Symphony and the Houston Symphony prior to his appointment with the Cincinnati Symphony, and it was a real pleasure to do this interview along with Contrabass Conversations regular collaborator John Grillo.

John, Owen, and I chat about Owen’s early years on the bass, his experiences working with Ed Barker, Jakstadt double basses, and perspectives from the bass section and a principal position. We also feature music the first movement from the Misek Sonata No. 2 and the Gigue from the Cello Suite No. 3 by Johann Sebastian Bach from Owen’s Boston Records CD, plus Facebook group shout-outs, listener feedback, bass news, and a link of the week.

Learn more about Owen at www.myspace.com/owenleedoublebass. Enjoy!

About Owen:

Described as “a true virtuoso” by legendary pianist Gary Graffman and praised by The New York Times for his “deft and virtuosic solo performance” at his New York debut at Alice Tully Hall, double bassist Owen Lee has earned acclaim as a soloist, chamber musician and since 1996, at the age of 26, as Principal Bass of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

Mr. Lee is heard regularly as a soloist with orchestras including the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Paavo Järvi and Jesús López-Cobos, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra under John Harbison, and the New World Symphony under Michael Tilson-Thomas in Miami and on tour to New York’s Lincoln Center. During the 2006-07 season, Mr. Lee and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, along with a consortium of other soloists and orchestras, will present the world premiere of John Harbison’s Concerto for Bass Viol and Orchestra.

Mr. Lee’s prizes in competitions include First Prize at the 1995 International Society of Bassists Competition and Fourth Prize at the 1992 Irving M. Klein International String Competition in San Francisco. He has been presented in recitals throughout the United States, and in Geneva.

For the Boston Records label, he has recorded the Misek Sonata No. 2 and Bach Unaccompanied Suites No. 3 and No. 5. American Record Guide praised this disc for its “tasteful phrasing, polish and verve” while The Strad wrote “Owen Lee is a fine player with strong musical ideas. A dark and austere sound is produced for Suite No. 5 and the architecture of each suite is carefully considered and shaped. I look forward to his next recording.”

Mr. Lee’s extensive international chamber music experience includes three summers as the bassist of the Marlboro Festival. While there, he performed extensively with such artists as Richard Stoltzman, Midori, Nobuko Imai, Bruno Canino, Pierre-Laurent Aimard, and members of the Beaux Arts Trio, Guarneri Quartet and Juilliard Quartet. He also collaborated with composers Gyorgy Kurtag, Leon Kirchner and Richard Danielpour preparing performances of those composers’ works.
Mr. Lee has also performed with the Tokyo String Quartet on tour to Mexico, John Browning, Anne-Marie McDermott, Jaime Laredo, Ida Kavafian, Steven Tenenbom, Peter Wiley, Eugenia Zukerman, the Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival, San Diego’s Mainly Mozart Festival, Ojai California Festival, Chamber Music L.A. Festival, Tanglewood Festival, Texas Music Festival, and on tour throughout China. With the Rossetti String Quartet he performed the world premiere of Melinda Wagner’s Concertino at the 2005 Bravo! Vail Festival.

Mr. Lee was born in Berkeley, California in 1969 to Chinese parents. He began playing bass at age 15 after previous study of the piano. A graduate of the University of Southern California, Mr. Lee’s principal teachers were Dennis Trembly, Edwin Barker and Paul Ellison.

Prior to his appointment in Cincinnati, Mr. Lee was a member of the Houston Symphony under Christoph Eschenbach. In addition to his position with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Mr. Lee serves as Principal Bass of the Shanghai Festival Orchestra.

Owen is married to CiCi Lee. He enjoys bicycling, snowboarding, cigars, auto repair and playing drums and writing songs with his rock band Toe (Eric Bates, CSO 2nd Assistant Concertmaster is Toe’s guitarist and lead singer, and Ted Nelson, CSO cellist is Toe’s bassist).

Link of the Week:

http://www.hawaiicbfest.org/

my list of top 10 wackiest pit encounters: http://doublebassblog.org/2007/12/musical-mutiny-below-decks-top-10-wacky-things-ive-seen-in-orchestra-pit-playing.html#more-1961

Music Provided by:

Show Notes:

Release Date: 12/30/07

Length: 53:37

listen by phone: +1 (360) 227-5632

call our comment line (24 hour voice mail): +1 (206) 666-6509

Website: www.contrabassconversations.com

E-mail: feedback@contrabassconversations.com

Blog: www.doublebassblog.org

Podcast T-shirts, hats, and more: www.cafepress.com/doublebass

MySpace: www.myspace.com/cbcpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17621298264

Theme song by Eric Hochberg: www.erichochberg.com

This show is brought to you by TalkBass.com, the largest community of bassists on the Internet. Join in the conversation at talkbass.com/cbc.

Check out our jazz forums at JazzDoubleBass.com.

Join our Facebook group and share videos, chat on discussion boards, leave ideas for the show, and interact with other bassists!

To get Contrabass Conversations downloaded automatically to your computer (for free!), you can subscribe in iTunes:

Click here to subscribe through e-mail or through another program besides iTunes

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/12/30/cbc-55-owen-lee-interview-and-music/feed/ 7 0:00:01 We’re chatting with Cincinnati Symphony principal bassist Owen Lee today on Contrabass Conversations. Owen played for the New World Symphony and the Houston Symphony prior to his appointment with the Cincinnati Symphony, and it was a real pl[...] We’re chatting with Cincinnati Symphony principal bassist Owen Lee today on Contrabass Conversations. Owen played for the New World Symphony and the Houston Symphony prior to his appointment with the Cincinnati Symphony, and it was a real pleasure to do this interview along with Contrabass Conversations regular collaborator John Grillo. John, Owen, and I chat about Owen’s early years on the bass, his experiences working with Ed Barker, Jakstadt double basses, and perspectives from the bass section and a principal position. We also feature music the first movement from the Misek Sonata No. 2 and the Gigue from the Cello Suite No. 3 by Johann Sebastian Bach from Owen’s Boston Records CD, plus Facebook group shout-outs, listener feedback, bass news, and a link of the week. Learn more about Owen at www.myspace.com/owenleedoublebass. Enjoy! About Owen: Described as “a true virtuoso” by legendary pianist Gary Graffman and praised by The New York Times for his “deft and virtuosic solo performance” at his New York debut at Alice Tully Hall, double bassist Owen Lee has earned acclaim as a soloist, chamber musician and since 1996, at the age of 26, as Principal Bass of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Lee is heard regularly as a soloist with orchestras including the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Paavo Järvi and Jesús López-Cobos, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra under John Harbison, and the New World Symphony under Michael Tilson-Thomas in Miami and on tour to New York’s Lincoln Center. During the 2006-07 season, Mr. Lee and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, along with a consortium of other soloists and orchestras, will present the world premiere of John Harbison’s Concerto for Bass Viol and Orchestra. Mr. Lee’s prizes in competitions include First Prize at the 1995 International Society of Bassists Competition and Fourth Prize at the 1992 Irving M. Klein International String Competition in San Francisco. He has been presented in recitals throughout the United States, and in Geneva. For the Boston Records label, he has recorded the Misek Sonata No. 2 and Bach Unaccompanied Suites No. 3 and No. 5. American Record Guide praised this disc for its “tasteful phrasing, polish and verve” while The Strad wrote “Owen Lee is a fine player with strong musical ideas. A dark and austere sound is produced for Suite No. 5 and the architecture of each suite is carefully considered and shaped. I look forward to his next recording.” Mr. Lee’s extensive international chamber music experience includes three summers as the bassist of the Marlboro Festival. While there, he performed extensively with such artists as Richard Stoltzman, Midori, Nobuko Imai, Bruno Canino, Pierre-Laurent Aimard, and members of the Beaux Arts Trio, Guarneri Quartet and Juilliard Quartet. He also collaborated with composers Gyorgy Kurtag, Leon Kirchner and Richard Danielpour preparing performances of those composers’ works. Mr. Lee has also performed with the Tokyo String Quartet on tour to Mexico, John Browning, Anne-Marie McDermott, Jaime Laredo, Ida Kavafian, Steven Tenenbom, Peter Wiley, Eugenia Zukerman, the Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival, San Diego’s Mainly Mozart Festival, Ojai California Festival, Chamber Music L.A. Festival, Tanglewood Festival, Texas Music Festival, and on tour throughout China. With the Rossetti String Quartet he performed the world premiere of Melinda Wagner’s Concertino at the 2005 Bravo! Vail Festival. Mr. Lee was born in Berkeley, California in 1969 to Chinese parents. He began playing bass at age 15 after previous study of the piano. A graduate of the University of Southern California, Mr. Lee’s principal teachers were Dennis Trembly, Edwin Barker and Paul Ellison. Prior to his appointment in Cincinnati, Mr. Lee was a member of the Houston Symphony under Christoph Eschenbach. In addition to his position with th[...] jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 51: L. Hurst interview part 3 http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/12/05/cbc-51-l-hurst-interview-part-3/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/12/05/cbc-51-l-hurst-interview-part-3/#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2007 05:09:58 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=88 This interview-only Contrabass Conversations episode features the conclusion of our interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst, whom we interviewed on episodes 20 and 23 of the podcast.  Visit John Grillo online at classicalmusicnews.tv.

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/12/05/cbc-51-l-hurst-interview-part-3/feed/ 0 0:00:01 This interview-only Contrabass Conversations episode features the conclusion of our interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst, whom we interviewed on episodes 20 and 23 of the podcast.  Visit John Grillo online at classi[...] This interview-only Contrabass Conversations episode features the conclusion of our interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst, whom we interviewed on episodes 20 and 23 of the podcast.  Visit John Grillo online at classicalmusicnews.tv. jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 42: Ranaan Meyer interview 2 and music from Time for Three http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/10/07/cbc-42-ranaan-meyer-interview-2-and-music-from-time-for-three/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/10/07/cbc-42-ranaan-meyer-interview-2-and-music-from-time-for-three/#comments Sun, 07 Oct 2007 02:31:16 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=61 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode concludes our chat with Time for Three bassist Ranaan Meyer. CBC guest and co-host John Grillo joins us in this interview, and the three of us had a very engaging conversation. You can check out the first part of our interview plus CBC video episodes featuring Ranaan on his Contrabass Conversations page here, and visit Time for Three’s website at www.tf3.com.

You can hear more from co-host John Grillo on his new blog www.classicalmusicnews.tv. Enjoy!

visit the show notes

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/10/07/cbc-42-ranaan-meyer-interview-2-and-music-from-time-for-three/feed/ 1 0:00:01 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode concludes our chat with Time for Three bassist Ranaan Meyer. CBC guest and co-host John Grillo joins us in this interview, and the three of us had a very engaging conversation. You can check out the[...] This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode concludes our chat with Time for Three bassist Ranaan Meyer. CBC guest and co-host John Grillo joins us in this interview, and the three of us had a very engaging conversation. You can check out the first part of our interview plus CBC video episodes featuring Ranaan on his Contrabass Conversations page here, and visit Time for Three’s website at www.tf3.com. You can hear more from co-host John Grillo on his new blog www.classicalmusicnews.tv. Enjoy! visit the show notes jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 41: Orchestral Excerpts Breakdown with John Grillo http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/09/30/cbc-41-orchestral-excerpts-breakdown-with-john-grillo/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/09/30/cbc-41-orchestral-excerpts-breakdown-with-john-grillo/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2007 04:11:13 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=58 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an in-depth analysis of the double bass orchestral excerpts most commonly requested at auditions. Double bassist (and regular Contrabass Conversations guest and co-host) John Grillo discusses each of these excerpts–stylistic considerations, differences in articulation and bow strokes, and suggestions for effectively learning them–and then performs them. I believe that this project will be a highly valuable resource for bassists worldwide, and I’d love your feedback on this project!

Learn more about John at his new blog ClassicalMusicNews.tv, and check out all of his older Contrabass Conversations appearances here.

visit the show notes

Excerpts covered (click below to hear individual tracks):

Beethoven Symphony No. 9
Beethoven Symphony No. 5
Brahms Symphony No. 1 and 2
Shostakovich Symphony No. 5
Mozart Symphony No. 35 and 39
Mahler Symphony No. 2
Schubert Symphony No. 9
Strauss Ein Heldenleben
Britten Young Person’s Guide
Verdi Otello

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/09/30/cbc-41-orchestral-excerpts-breakdown-with-john-grillo/feed/ 14 0:00:01 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an in-depth analysis of the double bass orchestral excerpts most commonly requested at auditions. Double bassist (and regular Contrabass Conversations guest and co-host) John Grillo discu[...] This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an in-depth analysis of the double bass orchestral excerpts most commonly requested at auditions. Double bassist (and regular Contrabass Conversations guest and co-host) John Grillo discusses each of these excerpts–stylistic considerations, differences in articulation and bow strokes, and suggestions for effectively learning them–and then performs them. I believe that this project will be a highly valuable resource for bassists worldwide, and I’d love your feedback on this project! Learn more about John at his new blog ClassicalMusicNews.tv, and check out all of his older Contrabass Conversations appearances here. visit the show notes Excerpts covered (click below to hear individual tracks): Beethoven Symphony No. 9 Beethoven Symphony No. 5 Brahms Symphony No. 1 and 2 Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 Mozart Symphony No. 35 and 39 Mahler Symphony No. 2 Schubert Symphony No. 9 Strauss Ein Heldenleben Britten Young Person’s Guide Verdi Otello excerpts jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 28: R. Meyer interview http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/07/08/cbc-28-r-meyer-interview/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/07/08/cbc-28-r-meyer-interview/#comments Sun, 08 Jul 2007 14:23:09 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=37 This week’s Contrabass Conversations podcast features the first part of our interview with double bassist Ranaan Meyer. John Grillo (a frequent guest and collaborator on the podcast) and I co-interviewed Ranaan, who is the bassist for the band Time for Three and has had a very interesting and multi-faceted career. In addition to hearing a few musical excerpts from Time for Three, this episode features music from German double bassist Guy Tuneh, Pittsburgh-based singer/songwriter Brad Yoder, Los Lonely Boys, and The Latin Soul Syndicate. Enjoy!

visit the show notes

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/07/08/cbc-28-r-meyer-interview/feed/ 38 0:00:01 This week’s Contrabass Conversations podcast features the first part of our interview with double bassist Ranaan Meyer. John Grillo (a frequent guest and collaborator on the podcast) and I co-interviewed Ranaan, who is the bassist for the ban[...] This week’s Contrabass Conversations podcast features the first part of our interview with double bassist Ranaan Meyer. John Grillo (a frequent guest and collaborator on the podcast) and I co-interviewed Ranaan, who is the bassist for the band Time for Three and has had a very interesting and multi-faceted career. In addition to hearing a few musical excerpts from Time for Three, this episode features music from German double bassist Guy Tuneh, Pittsburgh-based singer/songwriter Brad Yoder, Los Lonely Boys, and The Latin Soul Syndicate. Enjoy! visit the show notes jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 23: L. Hurst interview 2 and Bass Gang music http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/06/03/cbc-23-l-hurst-interview-2-and-bass-gang-music/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/06/03/cbc-23-l-hurst-interview-2-and-bass-gang-music/#comments Sun, 03 Jun 2007 01:03:00 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=7 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features a continuation of our interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst plus some music from plus some music from the Italian bass ensemble The Bass Gang. You can check out episode 20 of the podcast for the first part of this interview with Mr. Hurst, and detailed information for both guests is available in the show notes below. Enjoy!

visit the show notes

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/06/03/cbc-23-l-hurst-interview-2-and-bass-gang-music/feed/ 1 0:00:01 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features a continuation of our interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst plus some music from plus some music from the Italian bass ensemble The Bass Gang. You can check[...] This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features a continuation of our interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst plus some music from plus some music from the Italian bass ensemble The Bass Gang. You can check out episode 20 of the podcast for the first part of this interview with Mr. Hurst, and detailed information for both guests is available in the show notes below. Enjoy! visit the show notes jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 20: L. Hurst interview and music from DaXun Zhang http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/05/13/cbc-20-l-hurst-interview-and-music-from-daxun-zhang/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/05/13/cbc-20-l-hurst-interview-and-music-from-daxun-zhang/#comments Sun, 13 May 2007 16:28:00 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=10 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an excellent interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst. Double bassist (and frequent Contrabass Conversations guest) John Grillo co-hosted the interview with me. You’ll be hearing the first part of our interview this week, and we’ll be putting out more of this interview in the next few weeks.

You will also be hearing a track from the fabulous double bass virtuoso DaXun Zhang. DaXun was a student of Mr. Hurst at Indiana University, and he is currently on faculty at Northwestern University. Enjoy!

visit the show notes

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/05/13/cbc-20-l-hurst-interview-and-music-from-daxun-zhang/feed/ 5 0:00:01 This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an excellent interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst. Double bassist (and frequent Contrabass Conversations guest) John Grillo co-hosted the interview with me[...] This week’s Contrabass Conversations episode features an excellent interview with Indiana University double bass professor Lawrence Hurst. Double bassist (and frequent Contrabass Conversations guest) John Grillo co-hosted the interview with me. You’ll be hearing the first part of our interview this week, and we’ll be putting out more of this interview in the next few weeks. You will also be hearing a track from the fabulous double bass virtuoso DaXun Zhang. DaXun was a student of Mr. Hurst at Indiana University, and he is currently on faculty at Northwestern University. Enjoy! visit the show notes jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 14: J. Grillo interview part 3 and music of Terry Plumeri http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/03/31/cbc-14-j-grillo-interview-part-3-and-music-of-terry-plumeri/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/03/31/cbc-14-j-grillo-interview-part-3-and-music-of-terry-plumeri/#comments Sat, 31 Mar 2007 15:16:00 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=18 Episode 14 for Contrabass Conversations features the final part of our interview with John Grillo and a double bass recording from jazz artist Terry Plumeri. Enjoy!

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]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/03/31/cbc-14-j-grillo-interview-part-3-and-music-of-terry-plumeri/feed/ 3 0:00:01 Episode 14 for Contrabass Conversations features the final part of our interview with John Grillo and a double bass recording from jazz artist Terry Plumeri. Enjoy! visit the show notes Episode 14 for Contrabass Conversations features the final part of our interview with John Grillo and a double bass recording from jazz artist Terry Plumeri. Enjoy! visit the show notes jsh177@yahoo.com no no CBC 9: J. Grillo interview part 2 http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/02/24/cbc-9-j-grillo-interview-part-2/ http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/02/24/cbc-9-j-grillo-interview-part-2/#comments Sat, 24 Feb 2007 18:10:00 +0000 Jason http://contrabassconversations.com/?p=23 Here is the second part of our interview with John Grillo on Contrabass Conversations. John and I had an excellent interview, and there will be one more episode containing our episode coming out in March.

visit the show notes

]]> http://contrabassconversations.com/2007/02/24/cbc-9-j-grillo-interview-part-2/feed/ 0 0:00:01 Here is the second part of our interview with John Grillo on Contrabass Conversations. John and I had an excellent interview, and there will be one more episode containing our episode coming out in March. visit the show notes Here is the second part of our interview with John Grillo on Contrabass Conversations. John and I had an excellent interview, and there will be one more episode containing our episode coming out in March. visit the show notes jsh177@yahoo.com no no