Bass at Arts Academy
Why Study Bass at Interlochen
If percussion is an ensemble's heartbeat, the bass is its soul. At Interlochen, with your study of acoustic and/or electric bass, you will expand your musical style and approach, from classical to jazz, to rock, funk, gospel, Latin, and more. Unlock the versatility of your instrument as you practice and perform with other passionate artists at our arts boarding school.
What You’ll Learn
Our bass players are some of our most versatile students on campus and our six music programs allow you to play with that versatility.
Our combination of private lessons, studio classes, and ensemble work is designed to meet your needs and develop your abilities. Master instructors help you gain the fundamentals, develop your technique, and create your own style.
Interlochen Arts Academy is the top-rated boarding school for bass. You will learn repertoire and develop the discipline required if you're considering college and conservatory studies, or a professional career in music.
Double Bass Studio Spotlight with Interlochen Arts Academy Instructor Derek Weller
Welcome to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Double Bass Studio at Interlochen Arts Academy, featuring instructor (and Interlochen alumnus) Derek Weller! Join us as we delve into the world of double bass and witness the skills honed at one of the finest arts institutions.
College Matriculation
Recent Interlochen Arts Academy Music Division students have continued their education at the following institutions and beyond.
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Curtis Institute of Music
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The Juilliard School
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Peabody Conservatory (Johns Hopkins University)
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Shepherd School of Music (Rice University)
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Jacobs School of Music (Indiana University)
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Manhattan School of Music
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New England Conservatory
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University of Michigan
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Princeton University
Guest Artists
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Andy Anderson, Professor of Bass, Roosevelt University
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Steve Bailey, Chair, Bass Department, Berklee College of Music
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Lawrence Hurst, Professor Emeritus, Indiana University
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Kurt Muroki, Professor of Bass, Indiana University
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Andrew Raciti, Professor of Bass, Northwestern University
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Jeffery Turner, Professor of Bass, Indiana University
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Yung-Chiao Wie, Professor of Bass, Louisiana State University
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Victor Wooten, record producer, educator, and five-time Grammy award winner
Program Highlights
Performance Opportunities
Bass students have multiple performance opportunities with our classical and contemporary music ensembles. Learn more in our Explore Ensembles section below. Furthermore, we also showcase solo engagements and you will have the opportunity to participate in Interlochen Arts Academy's concerto competition.
Awards & Recognition
Academy bassists regularly receive accolades in competitions in the United States and around the world. In 2019, student Yue Zhang won first place in the 18-and-under division of the International Society of Bassists solo competition. Other recent graduates, including Ju-Fang Liu, Emily Honeyman, and DaXun Zhang, have placed highly in recent years.
The Music Center
Our state-of-the-art 60,000 square-foot music facility has two 3,500 square-foot rehearsal halls, two recording studios which allow for rehearsal and performance recordings in multiple venues on campus with multiple ensemble and practice rooms, and individual faculty teaching studios. Learn more about The Music Center.
Interlochen is everything I look for in a school, and so much more. I have made friends I know I will see down the line working in orchestras across the world. Playing the double bass, I get the chance to be part of the jazz and classical programs. Both are truly phenomenal, and they are helping me become a well-rounded musician and thrive in all aspects of my instrument.
Camilla, Music
Michael Thurber (IAA 03-05) discusses his entrepreneurial spirit
Learn how double bass alumnus, composer, and entrepreneur Michael Thurber founded his musical video experience organization, CDZA.
Nick Myers (IAA 10-12) returns to his Interlochen roots
Learn how Nick Myers went from Interlochen Arts Academy to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and back to Interlochen.
Dive deeper into Interlochen Arts Academy with a free digital viewbook
In our free informational booklet, you'll learn more about:
- Each of our seven arts areas
- Renowned faculty
- College-preparatory academics
- Student resources
- How to apply and financial aid information
- And more