Contrabass Conversations

Contrabass Conversations

double bass podcast

1087: Melody Ruiz on Thelma Terry

Melody Ruiz is writing a book about Thelma Terry, a double bassist and bandleader in 1920s Chicago. She documents her research process on Instagram and is crowdfunding the project through gofundme and Etsy.

We discuss how Melody discovered Thelma’s story, the challenges and rewards of researching someone from a century ago, and the fascinating discoveries she’s made along the way.

We’ll reconnect with Melody as her book nears publication. Meanwhile, follow her journey on Instagram!

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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!

1086: Christopher Dammann on the Chicago jazz scene

Christopher Dammann is a Chicago-based composer and bassist whose sextet recently released its debut album.

Our conversation explores Christopher’s journey from self-taught musician to Northwestern University bass student, examining how iconic Chicago venues like Velvet Lounge and Constellation shaped his artistry, his practice methodology, and much more.

Enjoy, and don’t miss this excellent debut album from Christopher’s sextet!

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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!

1048: Peter Dominguez on The Milt Hinton Institute for Studio Bass

On this episode, we welcome accomplished bassist and Professor of Double Bass and Jazz Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Peter Dominguez. Peter started his career in Milwaukee and has also taught at Michigan State University, the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, and performed with various artists globally.

Peter’s contributions include adjudicating international competitions, directing the Richard Davis Foundation conference, and the Milt Hinton Institute for Studio Bass. His discography includes “How About This”, “Groove Dreams”, and a solo recording “Bass Salute”.

We discuss the Milt Hinton Institute for Studio Bass, a summer program for teenage bass players, which Peter directs. Hosted by NJPAC and Montclair State University in July 2024, the program offers classes, performances, ensemble work, studio sessions, and more. Visit njpac.org/hinton for more information.

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Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass Rosin, developed by Gary Upton, boasts an excellent feel, response, and tone for double bass bows. Gary believes it’s the best bass rosin available. It’s appreciated by users like Blake Hinson from the New York Philharmonic for its quality and performance.  Learn more about Upton’s rosin, basses, and more at uptonbass.com.

1040: Alejandro Arenas on jazz gigging and teaching

Alejandro Arenas is a versatile musician, composer, producer, and educator who has performed with various bands and genres, co-founded award-winning Jazz ensemble La Lucha and World Music ensemble Orilla, and worked as a freelance bassist for numerous artists. He also serves as an adjunct professor of bass at St. Petersburg College for the Music Industry Recording Arts program.

We dig into his journey through the music world and much more.  Follow along with Alejandro on his website, Instagram, and Facebook, and a big thanks for our mutual friend Geoff Neuman for connecting us!

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984: Dan McCain on Moments in Time

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Dan McCain is a bassist, composer/arranger, and band leader who has recently released his debut album, Moments in Time.  We dig into Dan’s background, the Philly jazz scene, the story behind this album, and more.

A big shout-out to Katie Thiroux for connecting us, and be sure to check out Dan’s new album on bandcamp or Spotify and also give him a follow on Instagram!

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