Contrabass Conversations

Tim Rinehart is the Principal Double Bassist of the Oregon Symphony. A graduate of Rice University's Shepherd School of Music, Tim studied with Paul Ellison while also earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. He is the winner of the 2025 International Society of Bassists Orchestral Division Competition and has performed with numerous prestigious orchestras including the Boston Symphony, Londo...

In this episode, we speak with composer and flutist Dr. Sarah Bassingthwaighte about her groundbreaking Concerto for Double Bass and Orchestra, recently recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra with soloist Stephen Schermer . We dig into Sarah's approach to composition, the experience of writing this piece, balancing a solo bass with a full orchestra, and much more. Enjoy, and check out the sheet...

In this episode, Charles Gambetta introduces his innovative bass position system that addresses traditional limitations in fingerboard comprehension. His method combines Roman numerals with Arabic numbers to provide contextual information that enhances physical and mental connections during play. Charles explains how starting students at the 'primary lock' position and focusing on finger placement...

Winston "Jack" Budrow, former ISB board member, passed away on September 4, 2024, at age 79 after a brief hospice stay. Jack retired from Michigan State University's College of Music, where he served as professor of double bass and co-chair of the string area. His distinguished career encompassed both performance and teaching, including positions with the Houston Symphony and as principal bass in...

In this episode, we're joined by Gaelen McCormick , President of the International Society of Bassists , to discuss her groundbreaking book Teaching Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass: Historical and Modern Pedagogical Practices , co-authored with Dijana Ihas and Miranda Wilson. Gaelen shares insights on the historical development of bass pedagogy and how teaching methods have evolved over cent...

In today's episode, Trevor Jones and Jason explore the joys and terrors of subbing in the high-stakes world of musical theater. Read the transcription of this interview with other helpful links and resources. Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!   Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor!...

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...

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 all things d...

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 curio...

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...

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 he...

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 I...

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 Phi...

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 an...

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, h...

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 . Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us all things double bass double bass merch double bass sheet music   Thank you to our sponsor! Upton Bass...

Acclaimed double bassist and composer Xavier Foley recently made his recital debut at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco. During his visit, he generously made time to chat for the podcast and brought his bass along to perform. In this episode, we explore Xavier's background, compositional process, and much more. Watch the video version on YouTube , and discover his exceptional playing, sheet mu...

Double bassist and educator Kate Jones has just published her first book. Titled " Scotland Through the (St)Ages ," this resource explores the concept of deep review through a familiar and simple tune—presenting 84 variations on the classic melody "Scotland's Burning." We explore the inspiration behind this book, the creative process of putting it together, and how teachers, students, and professi...

Katie Thiroux recently released "Always but Never Alone," her first solo album featuring voice and bass. This intimate recording explores a wide array of genres through creative and diverse arrangements. We delve into the story behind the album, motherhood, and much more in this episode. Enjoy, and be sure to check out "Always but Never Alone" on Spotify , Apple Music , or wherever you listen to m...

Jacob Warren and Grant Flick have been performing as the duo project Warren & Flick for the past 10 years. Warren & Flick have just released their third duo album, Cormorant . While the physical album is available now, they're rolling out the digital release from June through December. In today's episode, we explore the duo's story and listen to excerpts from each track on the album. Don't miss th...

Kostas Patsiotis has an upcoming solo bass album "Childhood Heroes" and recently released " This Moment ," his first instrumental single from it. We talk about his use of looping, various technical setups to perform live, his desire to incorporate more Mediterranean sounds, and much more. Be sure to follow along with Kostas on his website , YouTube , Facebook , and Instagram , and check out his pa...

Chris Minh Doky is a world-renowned bassist, bandleader, and composer celebrated for his melodic solos and deeply funky bass lines. His rich sound, innovative approach, and pioneering work with the electric upright bass have earned him global recognition. He is also a  course creator for Discover Double Bass and has performed with iconic artists and bands including the Michael Brecker Quartet, Bre...

Michael Geib is a professor at the University of Central Oklahoma and an active double bass performer. His latest album, Don't Panic , features six original compositions written during the early days of the 2020 pandemic. In our conversation, we explore Michael's university roles, his approach to student recruitment in the social media age, his work with ATSA and ISB, his position as a Grammy voti...

Mark Bernat is a double bassist currently living in Austin, Texas. His groundbreaking recording and edition of the Six Bach Cello Suites were driving forces that led to their wider adoption in the double bass world. Mark studied at Juilliard and is a former member of the Israel Philharmonic, the Jerusalem Symphony, and the Seattle Symphony. He has taught at the Oberlin Conservatory, the University...

Margarethe Maierhofer-Lischka, born 1984 in Regensburg, is a double bassist, improviser, researcher, and sound artist. As an active ensemble musician, she collaborates with artists across disciplines to create performances, radio art, and sound installations. She is a member of several initiatives focusing on contemporary music, improvisation, and interdisciplinary art. Her work has been recognize...