In this episode, we’re joined by Gaelen McCormick, President of the International Society of Bassists, to discuss her groundbreaking book Teaching Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass: Historical and Modern Pedagogical Practices, co-authored with Dijana Ihas and Miranda Wilson. Gaelen shares insights on the historical development of bass pedagogy and how teaching methods have evolved over centuries.
We explore the fascinating evolution of bass pedagogy from 1800 to the present day, with special focus on how George Vance and Hal Robinson’s Double Bass Project revolutionized bass education. We also discuss the valuable transferable skills that musicians develop through bass playing and apply to other professional contexts, along with examining the significant leap forward in teaching methodologies that has occurred since 2000.
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Carnegie Mellon University Double Bass Studio is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with Micah Howard, and Peter Guild teaches weekly Orchestral Literature and Repertoire. They encourage students to seek lessons and guidance from local bassists. Members of the Symphony, the Opera, and the Ballet provide annual classes and individual attention. Visit Micah’s website to sign up for a free online trial lesson here.
- theme music by Eric Hochberg
