double bass podcast
Barry Green’s creative output is filled with surprises and unexpected new directions. The last tie he was on the podcast, we were chatting with Barry and Jeff Bradetich about Anna’s Promise.
An article from Barry just came out in the American String Teachers Association’s journal. Titled “Chair Factor,” this article is an examination of body energy in playing, and how posture can indicate good or bad body energy.
I was first introduced to Erik Higgins by orchestra director and bassist Jonathan Lane. Jonathan passed along a mesmerizing video of Erik performing an improvised duet with clarinetist Kinan Azmeh.
This duet is based on a Syrian Folk tune and took place during a live performance with A Far Cry and the Silk Road Ensemble.
Like New Century Chamber Orchestra bassist Tony Manzo, Erik has carved out a fascinating career for himself as a chamber music bassist. In addition to performing in A Far Cry, Erik plays regularly with the Handel and Haydn Society, and remains active in the both the modern and period performance scenes locally, nationally and abroad.
James Oesi is truly blazing new trails for double bassists worldwide. Originally from South Africa, James spent several years studying in Russia before moving to the Netherlands.
Over the past decade, James has established a vibrant career for himself as a solo double bassist. He also founded and hosted the Dutch Double Bass Festival in 2017.
Gary Karr… I mean, what can I say? He’s the reason that I play bass. That so many people play the bass. He’s truly one of a kind, and he’s not slowing down anytime soon!
When International Society of Bassists General Manager Madeleine Crouch heard that I would be the guest artist for the 2018 Las Vegas Bass Workshop, she suggested that Gary Karr and I coordinate an “at home with Gary” podcast. Gary Karr and Harmon Lewis split their time between British Columbia and Las Vegas, and both Gary and Harmon were around that weekend for a visit.
Gary, Harmon, and I spent several hours on a sunny Sunday afternoon chatting about all kinds topics, including:
…and much more!
I hope you enjoy this inspiring and freewheeling conversation, and be sure to check out my conversation with Gary from the 2017 ISB Convention as well!
Contrabass Conversations is sponsored by:
This episode is brought to you by D’Addario Strings! Check out their Helicore strings, which are are designed, engineered, and crafted at the D’Addario string factory in New York and come in orchestral, hybrid, pizzicato, and solo string sets..
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.
An institution in the Roscoe Village neighborhood for over 20 years, A440‘s commitment to fairness and value means that we have many satisfied customers from the local, national, and international string playing communities. Our clients include major symphony orchestras, professional orchestra and chamber music players, aspiring students, amateur adult players, all kinds of fiddlers, jazz and commercial musicians, university music departments, and public schools.
Contrabass Conversations production team:
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I first became acquainted with REMIC microphones through my good friend Adam Booker.
Adam did a comprehensive video review of the REMIC bass mics in 2017, and I was mesmerized by how well the acoustic sound of the bass is reproduced.
When Trine from REMIC reached out to me and suggested that company founder Thorkild Larsen and I chat about the technology behind these mics, I immediately said yes. After all, we “bass geeks” are always curious about new and emerging technologies surrounding our instrument.
This is a fun conversation and a deep dive into the inner workings of mixing a bass. You’ll love it!
