I recently got an email from double bassist Aaron inquiring about how humidity levels relate to string response. This is one of the most challenging and beguiling aspects of warm weather bass playing, as any bassist who plays outdoor gigs can attest. Aaron writes: I...
Our interview with Barry Kolstein, owner of the Kolstein Shop on Long Island, NY, is an interesting opportunity to learn about the bass business and how it has changed over the last half-century. Barry’s father Samuel entered the bass business in 1943, and...
An unfortunate thing happened at one of the exhibitor displays during this year’s International Society of Bassists Convention. This is the kind of horror movie episode that is sure to give both bassists and luthiers nightmares… One of the shops exhibiting...
One of the reasons I most relish the summer is the slower pace of life and extended periods of activity that I suddenly have–a real change of pace from my typical schedule during the academic year. This is usually the time that I do my most creative work (I...
All About Jazz laments the decline of several venerable Chicago jazz venues and puts out a heartfelt plea for this magnificent art form this weekend: From PERFORMANCE/TOUR: Chicago Jazz Scene The Jazz Showcase, the area’s biggest jazz venue closed its doors at...