Derek Weller
About Derek
Derek Weller is Instructor of String Bass at Interochen Arts Academy. In addition to his role at Interlochen, Weller is on faculty at Eastern Michigan University, is Principal Double Bass with the Michigan Opera Theater, performs with the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, and freelances with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. He is also a member of the Carmel Bach Festival Orchestra, which performs in Carmel, California during the months of July and August Weller performs chamber music frequently, with recent appearances including the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival.
Weller is a graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy, and received his Masters and Bachelors of Music degrees from the University of Michigan. He owns five basses: a 300-year-old Italian bass; a 200-year-old French bass; a Kay bass; and two modern instruments made by Aaron Reiley of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The adolescent years, from 14 to 18 are crucial to the development of the artist. I have the good fortune to be in the position of being able to guide students as they experience the joys of being able to fully expressive their musical ideas.
- Derek Weller was member of a select international committee organized to rewrite the Suzuki Bass Method.
- Recorded the Hindemith Double Sonata for the University of Michigan.
Diploma - Interlochen Arts Academy
B.M., Performance - University of Michigan
M.M., Performance - University of Michigan