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Contrabass Conversations

Contrabass Conversations

double bass podcast

1106: David Cutler on The Savvy Musician 2.0

In this episode, we welcome back David Cutler to discuss his new book, “The Savvy Musician 2.0: Amplifying Impact, Income, & Inspiration” (Oxford University Press, July 2025). David shares insights from this comprehensive resource on music careers and entrepreneurship, featuring over 150 case studies of diverse performers, creators, educators, and institutions.

Episode Highlights:

  • Evolution from the original “The Savvy Musician” to the new 2.0 version
  • Key strategies for musicians looking to amplify their impact in today’s music landscape
  • How artists can diversify income streams in the changing music economy
  • Notable case studies from the book’s 150+ featured artists and organizations
  • Practical advice for standing out in a competitive field
  • Innovative approaches to music entrepreneurship
  • The importance of legacy-building for modern musicians

About David Cutler

David Cutler serves as Distinguished Professor of Music Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of South Carolina. As a multi-genre pianist and composer, he brings practical experience to his work as a speaker, consultant, and what he calls an “Innovation GAME Master.” His groundbreaking first book, “The Savvy Musician,” helped shape a generation of artists in their approach to careers in music.

Resources Mentioned:

  • The Savvy Musician 2.0: Amplifying Impact, Income, & Inspiration (Amazon)
  • CBC 145: David Cutler and The Savvy Musician (Previous interview)

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Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass – From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

  • theme music by Eric Hochberg
https://traffic.libsyn.com/contrabassconversations/David_Cutler_Upton_ad.mp3

1105: Renee-Paule Gauthier on auditions and podcasting

This episode features a conversation with Renée-Paule Gauthier, host of the “Mind Over Finger” podcast and a successful violinist who recently won a position in the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

We reminisce about past interactions and discuss the power of podcasting and coaching in providing continuous learning and personal growth. Renée shares her journey of integrating disciplined scheduling into her life, balancing her career as a musician while delving into coaching.

The discussion explores the importance of adaptability, leveraging strengths, embracing an abundance mindset, and finding personalized approaches to practicing and audition preparation. Renée emphasizes the value of self-exploration and trusting the process rather than constantly seeking external validation and information.

Enjoy, and learn more about Renée’s podcast and coaching program here!

Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!

Connect with us

  • all things double bass
  • double bass merch
  • double bass sheet music

Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass – From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

  • theme music by Eric Hochberg

https://traffic.libsyn.com/contrabassconversations/Renee-Paule_Gauthier__Upton_read.mp3

1104: James VanDemark on playing in Ukraine

In this episode, we speak with acclaimed double bassist James VanDemark about his remarkable musical journey to Ukraine, where he recently premiered two new works with the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Theodore Kuchar.

We discuss the commissioning and premiering of two new concerti by Ukrainian composers Maksim Kolomiiets and Mykhailo Shved as part of Lviv’s 44th Virtuosos International Festival. We explore the dramatic story behind creating these works during wartime, James’ personal connection to Ukraine dating back to his teenage years in Ontario, and much more.

Enjoy, and be sure to learn more about these commissions in this article from The Strad and musical examples as well.

Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!

Connect with us

  • all things double bass
  • double bass merch
  • double bass sheet music

Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass – From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

  • theme music by Eric Hochberg

1103: Phil Donnelly on recording the double bass

Today’s episode features UK-based bassist Phil Donnelly. Phil is an active performer on London’s West End and recently released a video for D’Addario about how to record a double bass on any budget.

We dig into the benefits of having your own studio space, how Phil has navigated London’s theater world, his relationship to practicing, avoiding burnout, and much more.

Enjoy, and be sure to give Phil a follow on Instagram!

Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!

Connect with us

  • all things double bass
  • double bass merch
  • double bass sheet music

Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass – From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

  • theme music by Eric Hochberg
https://traffic.libsyn.com/contrabassconversations/Phil_Donnelly_Upton_and_CMU_ads.mp3

1102: Brandon Lopez on developing his double bass voice

Today’s episode features acclaimed bassist Brandon Lopez discussing his unique approach to the double bass, his collaborative experiences, and his journey developing a distinctive musical voice. From performing with the New York Philharmonic to playing in DIY Brooklyn basements, Lopez has worked alongside luminaries across jazz, classical, poetry, and experimental music.

We explore the physical and intellectual aspects of bass performance, how he collaborates with other artists, life on the road, and much more.

Enjoy, and be sure to follow Brandon on Instagram and check out his 2023 solo record and Revision with Fred Moten.

Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!

Connect with us

  • all things double bass
  • double bass merch
  • double bass sheet music

Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass – From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

  • theme music by Eric Hochberg
https://traffic.libsyn.com/contrabassconversations/Brandon_Lopez_Upton_and_CMU_ads.mp3
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