In this episode, we sit down with Edmonton-based jazz bassist and composer Aretha Tillotson to discuss her highly anticipated second album, Kinda Out West, releasing on November 7th, 2025. Following her Western Canadian Music Award-winning debut, Introducing Aretha Tillotson, this new album pays tribute to the musicians and landscapes of Alberta and British Columbia. Aretha’s… Continue reading 1120: Kinda Out West – Aretha Tillotson’s Tribute to Western Canada
Category: Interview Guests
1119: Orchestral Insights with Andy Anderson
In this episode, we sit down with Andy Anderson, the newly appointed Clinical Assistant Professor of Double Bass at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. With over two decades of experience performing with some of Chicago’s most prestigious ensembles, Andy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his teaching role. Enjoy, and check out Andy’s… Continue reading 1119: Orchestral Insights with Andy Anderson
1118: Gaelen McCormick on Simandl’s 30 Etudes
In this episode, renowned bassist and educator Gaelen McCormick joins us to discuss her newly released annotated edition of Franz Simandl’s 30 Etudes, published by Carl Fischer. For over a century, these etudes have been a cornerstone of double bass pedagogy. Gaelen’s fresh annotations bring new insights and perspectives to this essential collection. Check out… Continue reading 1118: Gaelen McCormick on Simandl’s 30 Etudes
1117: Darren Sacks on teaching double bass
In this episode, we chat with Darren Sacks, a double bass audition coach, UMass Boston Associate Lecturer, and Greater Boston freelance bassist, to discuss winning strategies for double bass auditions. Darren shares insights from his 9 years of coaching experience, during which he’s helped students gain acceptance into major youth orchestras like the Boston Youth… Continue reading 1117: Darren Sacks on teaching double bass
1116: Rodney Slatford on publishing
In this episode, Jason Heath interviews Rodney Slatford. Rodney is joined by his friend Mike Coombs, who helped facilitate this conversation. Together, they explore Rodney’s remarkable career as a performer, educator, publisher, and advocate for the double bass. As founding Chairman of the Yorke Trust, Rodney Slatford has established himself as a renowned double bass… Continue reading 1116: Rodney Slatford on publishing