International Society of Bassists

363: David Neubert on teaching and ISB history

David Neubert was one of the early champions of the International Society of Bassists. He hosted conventions at UT-Austin (1986) and Interlochen (1993).

He was the Principal Bass of the Springfield Symphony (Massachusetts), the Wichita Symphony and recently retired from the Austin Symphony Orchestra. He was a double bass professor at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Wichita State University, and The University of Texas at Austin.

We talk about a wide range of topics, including:

David’s early years in Northern California
the accomplishments of former students of his
David’s cross-country career path
the Reinshagen (New Work) and Torello (Philadelphia) schools of playing
David Walter and his Melodious Bass book

362: David Gage talks shop

David Gage opened his shop in 1978 in New York City. He has played an integral role in the double bass world ever since. David has served on the International Society of Bassists board of directors in the past and provides a wide range of products and services for the double bassist.

We chat about many topics, including:

studying with Dave Holland in 1976
working with Chuck Traeger
the origins of the shop
getting into making products and services
being a part of the “bass revolution” over the past few decades

361: Bass Europe 2018 Lucca Preview

Today’s episode covers details about the BASS2018 European Bass Congress that will be taking place in Lucca, Italy.

Follow along with the slideshow through this link, and be sure to keep up with current BASS2018 updates on the organization’s Facebook page.

Bass Europe Board

Jimmi Roger Pedersen, President
Gabriele Ragghianti, President-Elect
Stephan Petzhold, Vice President
Alberto Bocini, Vice President-Elect
Stefan Nestler, Treasurer
Ursula Beate Dietrich, Secretary
Dan Styffe, Board Member
Thierry Barbé, Board Member

BASS 2018 Artistic Directors

Gabriele Ragghianti
Alberto Bocini
Furio Di Castri (Jazz Artistic Director)
Jimmi Roger Pedersen (Jazz Artistic Director)

360: The Making of the ISB

Today’s episode features a panel discussion with individuals that started the International Society of Bassists, guided it through the early years, and helped shape it to what it is today.

359: Gary Karr on his remarkable journey

I’ve been dreaming about having Gary Karr on Contrabass Conversations ever since starting the show. We got a chance to sit down and chat during the 2017 International Society of Bassists Convention, and that’s what you’re hearing today.

Gary is the reason that so many of us (myself included) play the bass. He and I chat about my first experience seeing him perform in Sioux Falls South Dakota. This had a profound impact on me and is a key reason why I play the bass today.

Gary Karr founded the International Institute for String Bass (IISB) in 1967. During these early years, he published sixteen issues of Bass Sound Post and two issues of Probas. He also hosted three international conferences in Madison, Wisconsin.

Seeing Gary at this 50th anniversary convention was a treat for everyone involved. We saw him in concerts. He spent time chatting and taking photographs with countless bassists during the week. Having him at this event was significant for everyone attending.