Contrabass Conversations

Contrabass Conversations

double bass podcast

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.

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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!

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!

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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!

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.

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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!

1101: Lorraine Campet on her new album “Ames soeurs”

Lorraine Campet is recognized as one of the most talented double bassists of her generation. A passionate musician who embraces her profession fully, she thrives equally in chamber music, orchestral performance, and sharing her passion for the violin and double bass.

She recently released her debut album Ames soeurs, which has garnered critical acclaim. We explore Lorraine’s musical background, her process for selecting pieces for this album, her experiences playing both violin and bass, and much more.

Listen to Ames soeurs on your favorite streaming service, and follow Lorraine on her website, Instagram, and YouTube!

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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!

1100: Sienna George mute comparison

In this mini episode, we explore tonal comparisons of mutes crafted from various woods with Sienna George. Be sure to follow Sienna on Instagram and check out her past podcast appearance from 2022.

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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!