187: Chris Threlkeld-Wiegand on working at Robertson’s, building extensions, and aesthetic wood choices

Friday’s episode features another interview from the archives with bass maker Chris Threlkeld-Wiegand, who owns and operates the Heartland String Bass Shop. Chris makes beautiful basses and extensions—I actually have one of Chris’ extensions on my main bass.  Chris’ basses are played in major orchestras throughout the United States and are beautiful instruments with great sound. About… Continue reading 187: Chris Threlkeld-Wiegand on working at Robertson’s, building extensions, and aesthetic wood choices

186: Barrie Kolstein on making rosin, lessons learned from his father, and bass trunk technology

John Grillo and I recorded this interview with Barrie Kolstein back in 2008, and it has proven to be a very popular episode in the catalog. Barrie runs the Kolstein shop Long Island, and his instruments have been utilized by Jeff Turner of the Pittsburgh Symphony, James Van Demark of the Eastman School of Music,… Continue reading 186: Barrie Kolstein on making rosin, lessons learned from his father, and bass trunk technology

185: George Martin on challenging restorations, the art of varnishing, and riding horses in the English countryside

We are featuring George Martin from Thomas and George Martin Violin Makers. Their shop has been making basses for over 30 years, and they have a wealth of knowledge about the instrument-making and restoration process. George and I dig into these details, talking about some of his most challenging restorations and what goes into making… Continue reading 185: George Martin on challenging restorations, the art of varnishing, and riding horses in the English countryside

183: Susan Lipkins on crafting bows, tonal characteristics of wood, and how to choose a bow

A graduate of Juilliard, Susan Lipkins is one of the most respected bowmaker in the country and has made bows for Hal Robinson, Alex Hanna, Jeff Turner, Max Dimoff, Thomas Martin, and other major bassists worldwide. We talk about Sue’s early years growing up in Queens and studying with Homer Mensch and John Shaffer at Juilliard,… Continue reading 183: Susan Lipkins on crafting bows, tonal characteristics of wood, and how to choose a bow

182: Brent Edmondson on developing a satisfying career, subbing with the Philadelphia Orchestra, and gaps in music school training

One of the most enjoyable things about hosting a show like this is that I have the opportunity to connect with people that I find interesting and that are really exploring different directions in the world of the double bass, and Brent Edmondson is a prime example of a person like this. I’ve been following… Continue reading 182: Brent Edmondson on developing a satisfying career, subbing with the Philadelphia Orchestra, and gaps in music school training