Contrabass Conversations
Contrabass Conversations, produced by Double Bass HQ, features interviews and performances from leaders in the world of the double bass. Host Jason Heath dives deep into what makes these world-class artists tick. With over 3 million downloads, Contrabass Conversations is the most popular podcast for double bassists. Join the community and experience life on the low end of the spectrum!
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1126: Adam Kubota on Postmodern Jukebox and beyond
01/02/2026
1126: Adam Kubota on Postmodern Jukebox and beyond
In this episode, we sit down with , bassist and bandleader of the internationally acclaimed . Adam shares his musical journey—from studying bass with to becoming a key figure in one of the most innovative ensembles reimagining modern pop hits with vintage flair. Enjoy, and be sure to ! Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1125: From Double Bass to Viola - Navigating Musicianship with Stephanie Patterson
12/26/2025
1125: From Double Bass to Viola - Navigating Musicianship with Stephanie Patterson
In this inspiring episode, returns to share a deeply personal journey of resilience and adaptation. After experiencing serious health challenges that made it impossible to continue playing the double bass, Stephanie made the courageous decision to return to the viola—an instrument she hadn't played in over 50 years. This conversation explores the physical demands of playing large instruments, the importance of fitness for musicians, and how community orchestras provide invaluable support during life's unexpected transitions. Enjoy and . Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1124: The Journey of Creating a Bass Concerto with Jim Beckel and JuFang Liu
12/18/2025
1124: The Journey of Creating a Bass Concerto with Jim Beckel and JuFang Liu
In this episode, we dive deep into the creation of Memoirs in Time, a groundbreaking new bass concerto with composer J and Indianapolis Symphony Principal Bassist . This commission represents a significant addition to the bass repertoire and showcases the incredible versatility of the double bass. with full orchestra of "Memoirs in Time: Concerto for Bass and Orchestra" featuring JuFang Liu and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and on the creation of this piece. For those interested in performing this work, a and . Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1123: Exploring Tango and Ethnomusicology with Laura Camacho
12/11/2025
1123: Exploring Tango and Ethnomusicology with Laura Camacho
In this episode, we sit down with , a double bassist, tango composer, and ethnomusicologist originally from Buenos Aires and now based in Austin, Texas. Laura shares her fascinating journey from performing with the ensemble Las del Abasto in Argentina—including opening for tango legend Mariano Mores—to pursuing a PhD in ethnomusicology at the University of Texas at Austin. We dive deep into Laura's new album, Todo Tiempo Pasado, released in November of 2025 with her ensemble, the Laura Camacho Tango Project. The album is a beautiful blend of tradition and experimentation, featuring original compositions, works by Astor Piazzolla and Mariano Mores, and tango-inspired arrangements of pop songs like Britney Spears' "Toxic" and Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill." Enjoy and be sure to . Also, give her Tango Project a follow on Instagram! Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1122: The Joys of Chamber Music with Uxía Martinez Botana
12/04/2025
1122: The Joys of Chamber Music with Uxía Martinez Botana
Join us for a conversation with Spanish double bassist , who shares her journey from facing skepticism as a woman in classical music to becoming a celebrated soloist, chamber musician, and educator. Based in Amsterdam, she tours internationally with ensembles like the Budapest Festival Orchestra and Sol Gabetta's baroque ensemble, and is the first female double bass professor at a Spanish conservatory. We dig into topics like life on the road, work-life balance, her journey through the world of professional music, and her recent Mendelssohn X-Files Project. Enjoy, and learn more about Uxía and the great work she's doing through the links below Official Website: Mendelssohn X-Files Album: Spotify: YouTube: Instagram: Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1121: In-depth with Gary Upton - The Craftsmanship Behind Upton Bass
11/28/2025
1121: In-depth with Gary Upton - The Craftsmanship Behind Upton Bass
In this episode, , the founder of , joins us for an in-depth conversation about the craftsmanship, innovation, and business of building double basses. We explore a wide range of topics including the growing popularity of 5/8-sized basses, the development of Kay-inspired plywood models, the economics of bass-making, and Upton's ventures into creating strings, amplifiers, and rosin specifically designed for double bass players. Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1120: Kinda Out West - Aretha Tillotson's Tribute to Western Canada
11/20/2025
1120: Kinda Out West - Aretha Tillotson's Tribute to Western Canada
In this episode, we sit down with Edmonton-based jazz bassist and composer to discuss her highly anticipated second album, , releasing on November 7th, 2025. Following her Western Canadian Music Award-winning debut, , this new album pays tribute to the musicians and landscapes of Alberta and British Columbia. Aretha's chordless quartet channels the spirit of legendary groups led by Sonny Rollins and Ornette Coleman, creating a sound that's both rooted in tradition and distinctly modern. Enjoy, and give Aretha a follow on and ! Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1119: Orchestral Insights with Andy Anderson
11/14/2025
1119: Orchestral Insights with Andy Anderson
In this episode, we sit down with , the newly appointed . With over two decades of experience performing with some of Chicago's most prestigious ensembles, Andy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his teaching role. Enjoy, and . Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1118: Gaelen McCormick on Simandl’s 30 Etudes
11/06/2025
1118: Gaelen McCormick on Simandl’s 30 Etudes
In this episode, renowned bassist and educator joins us to discuss her newly released . For over a century, these etudes have been a cornerstone of double bass pedagogy. Gaelen's fresh annotations bring new insights and perspectives to this essential collection. Check out Gaelen's and . Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1117: Darren Sacks on teaching double bass
10/30/2025
1117: Darren Sacks on teaching double bass
In this episode, we chat with , a double bass audition coach, UMass Boston Associate Lecturer, and Greater Boston freelance bassist, to discuss winning strategies for double bass auditions. Darren shares insights from his 9 years of coaching experience, during which he's helped students gain acceptance into major youth orchestras like the Boston Youth Symphony (BYSO) and NEC Prep, summer festivals including Interlochen and BUTI Tanglewood, and undergraduate programs such as Northwestern's Bienen School of Music. Enjoy, and you can . Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1116: Rodney Slatford on publishing
10/23/2025
1116: Rodney Slatford on publishing
In this episode, Jason Heath interviews Rodney Slatford. Rodney is joined by his friend Mike Coombs, who helped facilitate this conversation. Together, they explore Rodney's remarkable career as a performer, educator, publisher, and advocate for the double bass. As founding Chairman of the Yorke Trust, Rodney Slatford has established himself as a renowned double bass player and teacher. His career includes over 1000 performances worldwide, 30 years with the Nash Ensemble of London, 10 years as co-principal bassist with the English Chamber Orchestra, and recording one of the first solo bass discs with the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields. In 1978, he founded the Isle of Man International Double Bass Competition and Workshop. Rodney served as Head of the School of Strings at the Royal Northern College of Music (1984-2001) before retiring to Norfolk to focus on the Yorke Trust and personal interests. Learn more about Rodney and the great work he is doing with the Yorke Trust . Connect with DBHQ Gear used to record this podcast When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1115: Tim Rinehart on audition breakthroughs
10/16/2025
1115: Tim Rinehart on audition breakthroughs
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, London Symphony, and Houston Symphony. Tim shares his journey through multiple auditions in a single season, revealing the breakthrough preparation strategies that led to winning his current. He discusses mental performance techniques, systematic practice methods, committee expectations, his education with Paul Ellison at Rice University, and his new role with the Oregon Symphony. Connect with Tim: Connect with DBHQ: Gear used to record this podcast: When you buy a product using a link on this page, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting DBHQ. Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . Theme music by
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1114: Sarah Bassingthwaighte on her double bass concerto
10/09/2025
1114: Sarah Bassingthwaighte on her double bass concerto
In this episode, we speak with composer and flutist about her groundbreaking Concerto for Double Bass and Orchestra, recently . 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 ! to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect With Us Join Our Newsletter - Double Bass Resources: Double Bass Sheet Music: Double Bass Merch: Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1113: Charles Gambetta on rethinking double bass positions
10/02/2025
1113: Charles Gambetta on rethinking double bass positions
In this episode, 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 and shift intervals improves intonation. He also demonstrates how this approach benefits various playing styles and has transformed his teaching approach. Enjoy, and be sure to check out Charles’ article on this approach in the . to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1112: Remembering Jack Budrow
09/25/2025
1112: Remembering Jack Budrow
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 the North Carolina Symphony. His students have secured positions in prestigious orchestras worldwide, from Atlanta to Oslo. During summers, Jack also taught at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. For his exceptional teaching, Jack received Michigan's 2014 String Teacher of the Year award from the American String Teachers Association and the ISB's 2017 Special Recognition Award for Teaching. He will be remembered for his joyful presence and rollicking humor. This interview was conducted by John Grillo and Jason Heath in 2008, and a . to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1111: Bass Pedagogy Evolution with Gaelen McCormick
09/18/2025
1111: Bass Pedagogy Evolution with Gaelen McCormick
In this episode, we're joined by , , to discuss her groundbreaking book , 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 centuries. We explore the fascinating evolution of bass pedagogy from 1800 to the present day, with special focus on how George Vance and Hal Robinson's Double Bass Project revolutionized bass education. We also discuss the valuable transferable skills that musicians develop through bass playing and apply to other professional contexts, along with examining the significant leap forward in teaching methodologies that has occurred since 2000. to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us: Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1110: What it takes to make it as a theater musician
09/11/2025
1110: What it takes to make it as a theater musician
In today's episode, Trevor Jones and Jason explore the joys and terrors of subbing in the high-stakes world of musical theater. of this interview with other helpful links and resources. to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1109: Courtney & Jason on Biarritz and the Joy of Bass Events
09/05/2025
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 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. to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us: Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1108: Remembering Gary Karr
08/28/2025
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. to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! is a valued part of an innovative fine arts community in a top research university. Students receive weekly private lessons and solo classes with , 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 . theme music by
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1107: Olie Brice on his Journey into Improvised Music
08/21/2025
1107: Olie Brice on his Journey into Improvised Music
In this episode, we're joined by UK-based double bassist , 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: to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1106: David Cutler on The Savvy Musician 2.0
08/14/2025
1106: David Cutler on The Savvy Musician 2.0
In this episode, we welcome back to discuss his new book, "" (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: (Amazon) (Previous interview) to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us: Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1105: Renée-Paule Gauthier on auditions and podcasting
08/07/2025
1105: Renée-Paule Gauthier on auditions and podcasting
This episode features a conversation with , 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 ! to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsors! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1104: James VanDemark on playing in Ukraine
07/31/2025
1104: James VanDemark on playing in Ukraine
In this episode, we speak with acclaimed double bassist 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 and . to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1103: Phil Donnelly on recording the double bass
07/24/2025
1103: Phil Donnelly on recording the double bass
Today's episode features UK-based bassist . Phil is an active performer on London's West End and recently released a 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 ! to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1102: Brandon Lopez on developing his double bass voice
07/17/2025
1102: Brandon Lopez on developing his double bass voice
Today's episode features acclaimed bassist 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 and check out his and . to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1101: Lorraine Campet on her new album "Ames soeurs"
07/10/2025
1101: Lorraine Campet on her new album "Ames soeurs"
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 , 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 on your favorite streaming service, and follow Lorraine on her , , and ! to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1100: Sienna George mute comparison
07/03/2025
1100: Sienna George mute comparison
In this mini episode, we explore tonal comparisons of mutes crafted from various woods with . Be sure to follow Sienna on and check out her . to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1099: Xavier Foley in San Francisco!
06/26/2025
1099: Xavier Foley in San Francisco!
Acclaimed double bassist and composer recently made his 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 , and discover his exceptional playing, sheet music, bows, and other offerings on his , , and ! to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1098: Kate Jones on her new double bass pedagogy book
06/19/2025
1098: Kate Jones on her new double bass pedagogy book
Double bassist and educator has just published her first book. Titled "," 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 professionals can incorporate it into their musical practice. Enjoy! to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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1097: Katie Thiroux on her new solo album
06/12/2025
1097: Katie Thiroux on her new solo album
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 , , or wherever you listen to music! to get these interviews delivered to you automatically! Connect with us Thank you to our sponsor! - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with today! theme music by
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