Audition-related Episodes

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

Berlin Philharmonic principal bassist Matthew McDonald is today’s featured guest!

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, and Koussevitzky. Check out these complete recordings and more on Matthew’s YouTube channel. Enjoy!

Tracks featured:

Winning the Audition 3: Preparation Routines That Work

Winning the Audition 2: Practicing Techniques for Peak Auditions

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

San Diego Symphony bassist Jory Herman is today’s guest!

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 with Art of Elan and is an active teacher and clinician.

We talk about his early years in music, studying bass with Paul Ellison at Rice University, and his time playing in the New World Symphony, where he got bitten by the community engagement bug. We also discuss the recording of both his previous album of Bach Cello Suites and his most recent album, as well as what it’s like to continue to develop as a player and a person after landing an orchestra job. Enjoy!

Links:

Winning the Audition: Preparing for Audition Success