We take a look back at all the guests we’ve featured in 2017 on Contrabass Conversations plus thoughts for the future of the show.
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.
439: Kevin Smith on Willie Nelson and Texas slap bass
I had a wonderful time talking with Kevin Smith for the podcast! Kevin is Willie Nelson’s bassist and has some of the best stories from the road that I’ve heard. You’ll love this conversation with Kevin–enjoy!
438: Leigh Mesh on discipline, fitness, and stories from the pit
It was a pleasure to chat with Leigh Mesh for the podcast! Leigh is the MET Orchestra Associate Principal Bass and teaches bass at Bard College. This is a fun and wide-ranging conversation with a ton of great advice throughout.
437: Nash Tomey on overcoming adversity
In this conversation with recent Kansas City Symphony audition winner Nash Tomey, we dig into how Nash overcame a playing injury that threatened to derail his playing career. This is an inspiring and honest conversation about something that many musicians struggle with during their careers!
436: Anthony Manzo on chamber music
It was a pleasure to chat with Anthony Manzo about his career as a chamber music double bassist, traveling with a bass (always an adventure!), the unique qualities of Anthony’s bass, and much more. A special shout-out to Eric Roy of Upton Bass for connecting me with Anthony for this conversation!