Double Bass and Beyond - Gary Upton of Upton Bass

Strong opinion: the orchestral bass world needs to move toward purpose-built five string basses, and we need to talk about it. Gary breaks down why C extensions — while still widely used and something we continue to install — may not be the best long-term path forward.  Why many five strings have not been working as well as they could. (hint: they're conversions, not purpose-built) The string...

In this episode, Gary from Upton Bass gets personal and reflective as he walks us through the foundation of the company—from the original vision inspired by Good to Great , to the values that continue to shape how Upton Bass builds instruments and relationships. He unpacks the deeper meaning behind Upton’s mission "to be the leader in designing and building American double basses and products...

Learn from Gary Upton about the world of the unsung heroes behind the music—the double bass luthiers—as we explore the mastery and tenacity required in this highly specialized craft. Throughout this episode, we compare the path of luthiers with that of bass players, highlighting the profound commitment and perseverance both crafts demand. Discover why these artisans deserve our utmost respect and...

Unlock the secret to transforming your bass playing experience with Gary's insights on string tension and setup. Imagine driving a dump truck with a jerky gas pedal—would you swap its powerful engine for a smaller one just for a smoother drive? Gary uses this metaphor to challenge the common belief that lighter tension strings automatically make your bass easier to play. By understanding how...

Learn the secrets of traveling with a double bass without the stress and hassle, featuring insights from Gary of Upton Bass. Ever wondered how to maintain your sound and comfort on the road? Discover the ingenious design behind Upton Bass' suitcase bass, an instrument that breaks down to fit into a Samsonite suitcase without compromising the essence of a real bass. It's like having your...

Ever wondered what it takes to replicate a cherished instrument with precision and care? Join us as we uncover the secret world of custom bass design with our longtime friend and client, the talented Matt Rybicki. With two decades of collaborative projects under our belts, we revisit Matt's journey from hybrid bass models to his latest passion: recreating his beloved 1910 Hawkes bass. Listen...

Have you ever wondered how a serendipitous moment could change the course of your life? Join me, Gary at Upton Bass, as I recount how an unexpected introduction to the double bass in middle school set me on a unique musical journey. Together with my wife, Antonia, we explore the power of representation and inclusivity in the world of music. Antonia shares the inspiration behind her children's...

Unlock the secrets behind choosing your perfect Upton bass model! Ever wondered what makes the Bohemian model so versatile, or why the 7/8 Mittenwald offers a deep sound without sacrificing playability? This episode is your comprehensive guide to understanding the unique features and applications of various Upton bass models, including the Brescian with its violin corners and the Concord, which fu...

Have you ever wondered what it takes to nail a major bass audition? Join me, Gary, as I unlock the secrets to audition success and share stories from my own journey in bike racing. You'll learn how sticking to your trusted equipment can save you from unnecessary stress, why visualization is a game-changer, and how a calm, focused mindset can make all the difference. I'll also reveal the...

Can a perfectly crafted fingerboard revolutionize your bass playing experience? We believe it can, and our latest episode breaks down how! Join us as we dive into the world of bass fingerboards, unraveling the complex dynamics of overstands, projections, and their impact on ergonomics. We'll explore the delicate balance needed to achieve the ideal pitch and pressure on the bass belly, and dec...

Are flatback double basses really less durable than their roundback counterparts? And does the shape of the back truly affect the richness of the sound? We tackle these questions head-on in our latest episode, using the Breschen and Mittenwald models to break down long-held beliefs and misconceptions. We dive deep into the construction details, clarifying that while roundbacks are often thought to...

Did you know that improper humidity levels can drastically shorten the lifespan of your beloved bass instrument? Join Gary from Upton Bass, as he uncovers the secrets to preserving the condition of your bass by maintaining stable humidity levels. In this episode, Gary delves into the science behind humidity control and its critical role in preserving the integrity of various bass components. From...

Ever wondered why certain notes on your double bass seem to "howl" uncontrollably? We uncover the enigma of wolf tones, those pesky yet fascinating resonant frequencies that are a natural part of every instrument. Whether you're a seasoned bassist or a curious listener, this episode will enrich your understanding of wolf tones on the double bass. We’ll help you identify these tonal...

Ever wondered why your bass suddenly starts buzzing out of nowhere? Join Gary from Upton Bass as he demystifies the notorious "phantom buzz" and turns you into a bass problem-solving pro! Get ready to dive deep into the anatomy of your instrument, where Gary explains how the table or top of your bass acts like a speaker cone, amplifying every sound and vibration. Through careful observat...

Unlock the secrets of an innovative approach to double bass tuning with our special guest, the acclaimed Joel Quarrington. Discover how tuning in fifths can transform your bass playing experience, from enhancing intonation to creating a more cohesive sound within string sections. Joel shares his personal journey of transitioning from traditional fourths tuning, the challenges he overcame, and the...

Have you ever found yourself awash in a sea of bass rosin choices, feeling more like a hapless fly than a master of your craft? Blake Hinson joins me, Gary Upton, in a gripping discussion that might just stick with you. Together, we explore the world of bass rosin, sharing tales from the quest for that elusive perfect grip. Pops may be the household name for its steadfast reliability, but our chat...

Dive deep into the resonant world of bass-making with us, where the choice of wood isn't just a detail—it's the soul of the instrument. You'll come away with a newfound appreciation for the meticulous craft that shapes the dark, rich tones of an orchestral bass and the bright, punchy sound of a soloist's pride. We'll walk you through the impact of grain orientation, the de...

Get ready to dive into the intriguing world of double bass strings in this captivating episode! Join hosts Gary Upton and Blake Hinson as they unravel the debate surrounding the necessity of a C Extension or a five-string bass for orchestral players. Discover the emotional impact and authenticity lost when bassists opt for playing notes an octave higher, and explore the nuanced complexities of mai...

Are you giving your bass the love and care it deserves? Are you paying enough attention to its acoustic sound and how it reflects on your amplified sound? Today's episode stems from a stimulating conversation with a client who questioned whether a plywood bass with a pickup could sound as good as a fully carved bass. We dive into the dynamic labyrinth of bass making and playing, exploring the...