Contrabass Conversations

In this episode, we're joined by UK-based double bassist Olie Brice, 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:

• Olie Brice's Official Website
• Olie's New Album on Bandcamp
• Olie Brice on YouTube
• Follow Olie on Instagram (@oliebricebass)

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• theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this episode, we welcome back David Cutler to discuss his new book, "The Savvy Musician 2.0: Amplifying Impact, Income, & Inspiration" (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:

• The Savvy Musician 2.0: Amplifying Impact, Income, & Inspiration (Amazon)
• CBC 145: David Cutler and The Savvy Musician (Previous interview)

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Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg

This episode features a conversation with Renée-Paule Gauthier, 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 learn more about Renée's podcast and coaching program here!

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Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this episode, we speak with acclaimed double bassist James VanDemark 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 this article from The Strad and musical examples as well.

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Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg

Today's episode features UK-based bassist Phil Donnelly. Phil is an active performer on London's West End and recently released a video for D'Addario 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 give Phil a follow on Instagram!

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Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg

Today's episode features acclaimed bassist Brandon Lopez 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 Instagram and check out his 2023 solo record and Revision with Fred Moten.

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Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg

Lorraine Campet 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 Ames soeurs, 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 Ames soeurs on your favorite streaming service, and follow Lorraine on her website, Instagram, and YouTube!

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Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg

In this mini episode, we explore tonal comparisons of mutes crafted from various woods with Sienna George. Be sure to follow Sienna on Instagram and check out her past podcast appearance from 2022.

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Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg

Acclaimed double bassist and composer Xavier Foley recently made his recital debut 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 video version on YouTube, and discover his exceptional playing, sheet music, bows, and other offerings on his website, Instagram, and YouTube Channel!

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• all things double bass
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Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg

Double bassist and educator Kate Jones has just published her first book. Titled "Scotland Through the (St)Ages," 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!

Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!

Connect with us

• all things double bass
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• double bass sheet music

Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations. Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg