374: being an adult amateur with Stuart Pearce

Stuart Pearce is an engineer by trade.

Three years ago, he sent his youngest child off to college and did a “rest of life” evaluation.

What do things look like for the next 20-30 years?

Golf and finishing would be fun… but it didn’t have the appeal to Stuart.

Playing an instrument came to mind.  Inspired by hearing Edgar Meyer, he decided to pick up the bass.

He’s three years in and is loving it!

Our story today in three parts:

  • Part 1 – why the bass?
    • the story of the aluminum bass
    • being stewards of these instruments
  • Part 2 – the challenges
    • what it’s like learning the bass as an adult
    • what has been surprisingly difficult
  • Part 3 – advice for those thinking about picking up an instrument

Reach out to Stuart by emailing him.

Links from Stuart:

Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by:

The Upton Bass String Instrument Company.  Upton’s Karr Model Upton Double Bass represents an evolution of our popular first Karr model, refined and enhanced with further input from Gary Karr.  Since its introduction, the Karr Model with its combination of comfort and tone has gained a loyal following with jazz and roots players. The slim, long “Karr neck” has even become a favorite of crossover electric players.

Check out this video of David Murray “auditioning” his Upton Bass!

The Bass Violin Shop, which  offers the Southeast’s largest inventory of laminate, hybrid and carved double basses. Whether you are in search of the best entry-level laminate, or a fine pedigree instrument, there is always a unique selection ready for you to try. Trade-ins and consignments welcome!

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By Jason

An active double bass performer and teacher, Jason teaches double bass at DePaul University and served on the Board of Directors of the International Society of Bassists for many years. Jason is the current President of the Illinois chapter of the American String Teachers Association. Jason has been a member of the Elgin Symphony since 2000 and has played with the Midsummer’s Music Festival in Door County for the past decade. He is a past member of the Milwaukee Ballet and IRIS Orchestra, and has performed with the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Grant Park Symphony, and numerous other professional ensembles.