Contrabass Conversations

Contrabass Conversations

double bass podcast

1109: Courtney & Jason on Biarritz and the Joy of Bass Events

In this episode, my wife, Courtney, and I share our exciting experiences from the recent Biarritz International Bass Academy in the beautiful coastal town of Biarritz, France.

We discuss the unique atmosphere of this bass event and explore why gatherings like this are invaluable for musicians at all levels.

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

Connect with us:

Thank you to our sponsors!

Upton Bass – From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like 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!

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.

1108: Remembering Gary Karr

In this special episode, Jason Heath shares three personal memories of the legendary double bassist Gary Karr, who passed away this summer. Gary Karr was widely regarded as the world’s leading solo bassist who elevated the double bass as a solo instrument during his illustrious career.

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

Connect with us

Thank you to our sponsors!

Upton Bass – From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like 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!

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.

1107: Olie Brice on his Journey into Improvised Music

In this episode, we’re joined by UK-based double bassist Olie Brice, a prominent voice in the world of free jazz and improvised music. Olie shares his musical journey, practice approaches, and experiences as a touring bassist working with renowned artists like Evan Parker and Tony Malaby.

This episode offers valuable insights for bassists interested in improvised music, as well as listeners curious about the creative process behind free jazz and the practical aspects of life as a touring musician.

Links and Resources:

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

Connect with us

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!

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:

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

Connect with us:

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!

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

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!