558: Brian Marcus on Feldenkrais Method

Today, we’re featuring San Francisco Symphony bassist Brian Marcus, who has been a member of the orchestra for 38 seasons.  Brian overcame a serious playing injury several years ago through the Feldenkrais Method, and his discovery of this method transformed his approach to bass, music, and other aspects of his life. We dig into the… Continue reading 558: Brian Marcus on Feldenkrais Method

557: Ralph Alcala on building basses

Today, we’re featuring Ralph Alcala, who has recently moved into building basses full-time.  Ralph is a super-talented luthier.  Check out past podcast guest Aaron Olguin playing Ralph’s fourth double bass to hear these beautiful bass cannons that Ralph’s building. Ralph has actually been on the podcast before as a part of our Luthier Roundtable at… Continue reading 557: Ralph Alcala on building basses

555: Recital Preparation

Today’s episode features the following past podcast guests on the topic of recital preparation: Sam Suggs – James Madison University Diego Zecharies – Galicia Symphony Orchestra principal solo bass David Grossman – New York Philharmonic  Marek Romanowski – Polish soloist and teacher Jack Unzicker – University of Texas at Arlington Listen to more “best of”… Continue reading 555: Recital Preparation

554: Section Bassists

Today’s episode features the following past podcast guests on life in the bass section and how to play well in it: Susan Wulff – San Diego Symphony Todd Coolman – Indiana University Michael Hovnanian – Chicago Symphony Brent Edmondson – substitute bassist for Philadelphia Orchestra Tom Zera – Utah Symphony Listen to more “best of”… Continue reading 554: Section Bassists