Gary Upton of Upton Bass hosts a double bass and business-specific podcast for bass players, luthiers, and enthusiasts alike. Learn about Upton Bass, upright bass history, repair & maintenance, building basses, and many valuable business lessons along the way. All with Gary and some amazing guests!
Episodes:
Venture deeper into the world of custom string and bass development, as Joel sheds light on the creative solutions for musicians in under-resourced regions. Learn about the historical significance and modern adaptations of instruments like the Dragon Eddie, and the ongoing efforts to craft basses that meet the nuanced needs of players. This episode promises to inspire and inform, offering practical insights and a hopeful outlook on future innovations in bass tuning. Whether you’re a seasoned bassist or just curious about the evolution of string instruments, this conversation with Joel Quarrington is a must-listen.alike.
It’s not all about the stickiness, though. In this episode, you’ll hear about that time at Tanglewood Institute when the pressure was on, and the right rosin made all the difference during a nerve-wracking master class with Ed Barker. We also discuss the symphonic percussion of bow noise and how it enriches an orchestral performance. And if you’ve ever wondered about hypoallergenic rosins, we cover that too, sparing none of our candid opinions. Join us for a conversation that dissects the countless considerations of bass rosin, delivering wisdom that resonates with bassists and strings enthusiasts alike.
Then, lace up for a journey through history with our exploration of the delicate craftsmanship that hails from the traditions of Italian, English, German and Czechoslovakian luthiers. As we traverse the nuances of wood carving and bracing, you’ll learn how each choice—whether it’s bright maple, soft poplar, or willow—affects not only the bass’s sound but also its aesthetic and structural integrity. This episode isn’t just about the hows but also the whys behind matching each musician with their perfect bass, transcending budget constraints and elevating performance. Join us for a symphony of insights that could very well fine-tune your understanding of what goes into creating a bass that sings with character and quality.
In the second chapter, Gary and Blake take a deep dive into the composition of their preferred string setups, sharing their expertise on the blend of spire core and Belcanto strings. Gain valuable insights into their thought process as they compare various string configurations, including the transformative effect of string selection on the instrument’s voice. They discuss the Galliano basses and the Upton copy, shedding light on the tonal possibilities offered by different string choices. And don’t miss the exciting announcement of Blake’s upcoming “beef set,” promising a whole new range of tonal possibilities for fellow bass aficionados. If you’re passionate about the double bass and want to join the ongoing conversation, this episode is a must-listen!
Playing your bass acoustically and enjoying its sound forms the bedrock of whatever comes out of your pickup. This episode will help you reevaluate your understanding of pickups, bass types, strings, amplifiers, and even the chord that connects to the amplifier. We share practical tips on finding the right amp, pickup, and settings to preserve your unique sound as you amplify. So, join me, Gary from Uptown Bass, as we uncover the often overlooked aspects of your acoustic sound and how to let it shine through, no matter the pickup or amp. Start with your hands, your sound, your bass – and let it work for you!
Parallels are drawn in music, racism, and inclusion…playing with others, we make better “music” on stage and in society as one.
https://www.victorwooten.com
Basses, business, life, wood, travel, building, and much, much more! Stay tuned and be ready to hear from Gary and some of the best in the business.
From Grammy Award Winning Musicians, Luthiers, Teachers, Professors, Other Entrepreneurs, “Average Joes” and everything in between.
Get ready to dig in with Gary!
When it comes to one’s career, the desire to make a difference or create ripples as a mover and shaker is usually a driving force that comes naturally to an individual. Whether it is an invention, innovation, or transformation, it is by creating a connection with those around that makes one stand out.
An inventor, musician, and entrepreneur, Gary Upton designed new ways of bringing his passion into becoming valuable resources that continue to touch people’s lives today. Read More Here
For Bass Players Only: https://forbassplayersonly.com/interview-gary-birkhamshaw/
The Day: https://www.theday.com/article/20120505/NWS01/305059968