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:
Have you ever found yourself awash in a sea of bass rosin choices, feeling more like a hapless fly than a master of your craft? Blake Hinson joins me, Gary Upton, in a gripping discussion that might just stick with you. Together, we explore the world of bass rosin, sharing tales from the quest for that elusive perfect grip. Pops may be the household name for its steadfast reliability, but our chat reveals the artistry in selecting the right rosin for the right moment. From the smooth draw of a Weedoft to the graininess-reducing power of Carlson, we expose the intricate dance of tone and texture that shapes our sound.
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.
Dive deep into the resonant world of bass-making with us, where the choice of wood isn’t just a detail—it’s the soul of the instrument. You’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for the meticulous craft that shapes the dark, rich tones of an orchestral bass and the bright, punchy sound of a soloist’s pride. We’ll walk you through the impact of grain orientation, the debate of flat versus round backs, and why a medium-grained spruce top could be the secret to a responsive bass. Ever wonder how softwoods like Italian poplar can change the game? We’ve got that covered, too.
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.
Get ready to dive into the intriguing world of double bass strings in this captivating episode! Join hosts Gary Upton and Blake Hinson as they unravel the debate surrounding the necessity of a C Extension or a five-string bass for orchestral players. Discover the emotional impact and authenticity lost when bassists opt for playing notes an octave higher, and explore the nuanced complexities of maintaining musical integrity. They also delve into the realm of transcriptions and the responsibility every musician holds to preserve the original intent of the music. With their unique insights and passion for the double bass, this episode is a must-listen for all bass string enthusiasts!
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!
Are you giving your bass the love and care it deserves? Are you paying enough attention to its acoustic sound and how it reflects on your amplified sound? Today’s episode stems from a stimulating conversation with a client who questioned whether a plywood bass with a pickup could sound as good as a fully carved bass. We dive into the dynamic labyrinth of bass making and playing, exploring the significant roles of different components in the ultimate sound output. And remember, as the saying goes, “the result sound is only as good as what you put in.”
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!
Gary Upton talks with Chris Wood who formed Medeski Martin & Wood in 1991 with Medeski and Billy Martin. Wood also collaborates with his brother, Oliver Wood in the band The Wood Brothers. Gary and Chris discuss Chris’s approach to the role of the bassist as he shares lessons from his long musical career
In episode 2 of the Double Bass and Beyond with Gary Upton of Upton Bass, Gary chats with Grammy Awarded double bassist Travis Book of The Infamous String Dusters about the latest in bass and music-life for Travis. You might not know how far Travis has taken the bass…literally. Checkout this YouTube video for just how far he has!
In this episode (part 1 of 2) Gary and Vic talk post-pandemic new “normals” as Victor Wooten shares his perspective with Gary Upton on what, as people and a society we have derived from a new way. 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
In this welcome episode, Gary says hello and introduces you to some of the topics that will be presented and covered in this new double bass podcast. 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
