Author: 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.

236: Matthew McDonald on resonance, bow distribution, and mindset

Today’s episode features Berlin Philharmonic principal bassist Matthew McDonald. Originally from Australia, Matthew joined the Philharmonic in 2008 after spending time in orchestras in Denmark and Germany. We cover bow distribution, resonance, the performers mindset, practicing, advice for students, and several other topics. We also feature excerpts of Matthew performing pieces by Hindemith, Bruch, Bottesini,… Continue reading 236: Matthew McDonald on resonance, bow distribution, and mindset

234: Justin Locke returns!

  Today’s episode is a “round two” with Justin Locke. After playing double bass for many years with the Boston Pops, Justin is now a management coach, speaker, author, and playwright. We talk about many concepts, including the Toyota Lean Manufacturing system and how it relates to the Simandl technique, crazy stories from the Boston… Continue reading 234: Justin Locke returns!

232: Jory Herman on community engagement, balance, and resonant churches

Today’s episode features Jory Herman, who is a member of the San Diego Symphony bass section and has just released his second solo album titled Life.  In addition to playing in the San Diego Symphony, Jory is actively involved in community engagement in the San Diego area.  He has recently become Director of Community Engagement… Continue reading 232: Jory Herman on community engagement, balance, and resonant churches