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 to Matt’s fascinating story of using pencil-rubbing techniques on backdrop paper to capture the complex contours of his instrument, all while maneuvering around the bridge. Plus, we’ll explore Matt’s recent move to North Carolina and his significant contributions to bass education, including his Ray Brown book and upcoming courses.

Throughout our discussion, the craftsmanship and dedication to sound quality shine as we tackle the intricacies of bass design. Learn about approaches to creating remote replicas for noted musicians like Blake Hinson and Victor Wooten, and explore the unique qualities of flatback versus roundback designs with insights from Max Zeugner's Cassini bass experience. This episode celebrates the art of instrument-making, the joy of collaboration, and the anticipation of Matt finally playing his custom bass—a testament to years of shared passion and expertise. Whether you're a musician or simply fascinated by the process, this conversation is sure to resonate with bass enthusiasts and beyond.

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 book, "Catalina Plays the What?" which tells the story of a young girl of color exploring the double bass. Our discussion shines a light on trailblazers like Esperanza Spalding and Nina Bernet, who are redefining the traditional musical landscape, and we express our hopes for a future where every child, regardless of their background, feels welcomed in the world of music.

We also uncover the impact of Antonia's book in schools, where it's inspiring young minds and receiving acclaim from educators. As we dream big, there's excitement in the air about expanding this into a series that could also explore the electric bass guitar. We talk about the double bass’s vital role across various music genres, from jazz to rock, and our passion for educating all ages about this magnificent instrument. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that celebrates the double bass and envisions a more inclusive and diverse musical future.

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 fuses elements of Mittenwald design with ergonomic ease. We also dive into customization options like flatbacks, roundbacks, and wood choices, giving you the insights you need to match your bass to your playing style and preferences.

But that's not all—we turn the spotlight on the intricate process of creating custom basses tailored just for you. Through the lens of a current project, we explore how combining different features can produce a bespoke instrument that meets your specific desires, from aesthetic appeal to functionality. Whether you're drawn to violin or gamba corners, our dedication to craftsmanship ensures that your bass feels just right. Tune in to discover how we bring your dream instrument to life, making it an extension of your musical essence.

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 powerful impact of positive mantras and the essential skill of quickly moving past mistakes for a stellar performance. This episode promises to equip you with practical strategies that can dramatically improve your audition technique.

Feel the buzz of anticipation with me as we eagerly await the results of the principal bass position at the Boston Symphony Orchestra. With numerous highly talented musicians vying for this prestigious spot, the competition is fierce and unpredictable. I share my excitement and personal favorites, eagerly speculating on who will rise to the occasion under pressure. This episode is a celebration of talent, resilience, and the remarkable journey of these incredible bassists. Stay tuned to experience the thrill and passion of this pivotal moment in the bass community. Thanks for joining me!

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 decode the mysterious "wet" fingerboard effect on the bass's signature growl. You'll also discover why fingerboard dressing is crucial and how different types of ebony – Indian, Chinese, and African – affect the instrument's resonance and resilience. Plus, get inspired by Victor Wooten’s insights on the essential role of the right hand in musical expression.

Ever wondered why the thickness of a fingerboard matters so much, especially when there's no truss rod? This episode sheds light on that too. We'll examine the vital connection between the fingerboard and the neck, highlighting how materials like ebony and seasoned maple ensure stability and longevity. And don't miss our discussion on wood grain and humidity, and how combining materials can lead to a perfectly crafted joint. With our expert tips and tricks, you'll see how small adjustments can lead to a significant improvement in your playing, much like how teamwork boosts efficiency. Tune in for a deep dive into the craftsmanship that shapes your bass's performance!

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 produce a warmer sound, a skilled maker can work wonders with either design. We also debunk the myth about flatbacks' fragility, providing a historical lens that sheds light on why some older German-imported instruments got an undeserved bad rap.

But that's just the beginning. We take you on an intricate journey through the anatomy of double basses, revealing how the choice of wood, body geometry, and construction techniques can make all the difference. From the quarter-sawn vertical grain spruce tops to the neck set and bracing methods, every element plays a crucial role in the instrument's performance and longevity. Whether you’re a seasoned bassist looking to deepen your understanding or a curious listener fascinated by the mechanics of musical instruments, this episode offers invaluable insights into the craftsmanship behind the double bass.

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 the neck and fingerboard to the body, discover how fluctuations can spell disaster for your instrument. He will also share why hygrometers are indispensable tools in the shop and how they can help you monitor and maintain a stable environment for your bass—even if it's made of plywood.

Traveling with your bass? Don't fret. Drawing from personal experiences, Gary will provide you with practical advice on how to manage your instrument's humidity on the go. Learn how to navigate extreme temperatures, use Dampits effectively, and why you should never leave home without a hygrometer. Whether you're adjusting the heating in a hotel room or prepping for an extended tour, these tips will ensure your bass remains in optimal condition, no matter where you are. This episode is a must-listen for every bassist dedicated to preserving the longevity and performance of their instrument.

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 quirks by playing open strings and harmonics, and guide you on how to adjust and work around them. Practical demonstrations will show the impact of body dimensions, setup, string tension, and tuning on these mysterious frequencies.

Focusing on critical notes, we delve into the challenges of managing sudden wolf tones, often influenced by seasonal changes in humidity and temperature. Learn how to monitor your instrument's condition to prevent these issues from amplifying. This episode serves as an essential primer on wolf tones, setting the stage for future discussions on more intricate aspects of instrument making and maintenance. Don’t miss out on valuable insights and practical tips designed to help you master the nuances of your instrument's behavior and improve your musical journey.