I’ve kept this under wraps to the general public, but we’re close enough to doing our official release that I just can’t resist giving blog readers a sneak peek:

I’m pleased to announce that the first annual Chicago Bass Festival will be taking place on Sunday, February 7, 2010 at Ravinia’s Bennett-Gordon Hall in Highland Park, Illinois from 9 am – 5 pm. The day will include master classes, performances, and clinics on a variety of topics (solo playing, orchestra, jazz, early music, young bassist workshops) from Chicago’s leading double bass performers and educators, and will feature retailers of double basses, bows, music, and accessories.

Bassists of all ages are encouraged to attend. Different sessions will be geared toward different experience levels, so anyone from a total beginner or an experienced professional will find value and benefit in the offerings and atmosphere of the Chicago Bass Festival.

Clinicians to include the following:

• Peter Lloyd (Northwestern University, former member of Minnesota Orchestra and Philadelphia Orchestra)
• Michael Hovnanian (Chicago Symphony, DePaul University)
• Steve Rodby (Pat Metheny Group, participation pending touring obligations)
• Brad Opland (Chicago Symphony, Chicago Chamber Musicians)
• Eric Hochberg (jazz bassist, composer, bandleader, producer)
• Rob Kassinger (Chciago Symphony, DePaul University)
• Jeff Bradetich (Cleveland Institute, University of North Texas)
• Andy Anderson (Lyric Opera of Chicago, Chicago College of Performing Arts)
• Michael Cameron (University of Illinois)

A complete list of clinicians can be found through the following link:

chicagobassfestival.com/Clinicians

This should be a wonderful event with great clinics and performances as well as several bass luthiers and retailers in attendance, so stay tuned for registration information (will be $60 per person, and non-bassist family members may come along for free) in the next week or two!