We’re chatting with Paul Sharpe and Ella Sharpe about what it’s like studying the bass from your parents. We talk about how both Paul and Ella got into playing the bass, the unique bass program at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, perspectives from both Paul and Ella, and Ella’s thoughts on her future. Enjoy!
About Paul Sharpe:
Paul Sharpe enjoys teaching all levels of student, whether it is starting instruction with young students and instilling them with good playing habits from the start or with an already well-developed graduate student that he can refine into something great. Sharpe pulls from his extensive performance career while teaching which includes countless performances with orchestras, quartets and as a member the strings duo Low and Lower.
About Ella Sharpe:
Ella Sharpe began double bass at seven years old under the tutelage of her father in North Carolina. At 17, she was a competitor in the semi-finals of the 2017 International Society of Bassists Solo Competition (15-18 division). Ella is now in her third year of undergraduate studies with David Allen Moore at the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California. Ella has attended music festivals including the National Youth Orchestra, Sarasota Music Festival, and Wabass. Ella also plays the viola da gamba.
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Contrabass Conversations production team:
- Jason Heath, host
- Michael Cooper and Steve Hinchey, audio editing
- Mitch Moehring, audio engineer
- Trevor Jones, publication and promotion
- theme music by Eric Hochberg