Plan Your Trip

FAQ’s answered by our President Elect, Kristin Korb:

Kristin Korb

It’s my first time to an ISB convention.  How long should I stay?  My first time at ISB, I was asked to play an afternoon concert.   I only stayed that day.  I didn’t do any research to find out who was coming.  I looked out in the audience as I walked on stage and saw John Patitucci, Rufus Reid, Bert Turetzky and many others.  They played that week and I missed them ALL.  I didn’t even get to hang out with anyone.  I vowed that I wasn’t going to miss that much again.  I stayed 3 days the next time.  I still felt like I missed too much.  I’ve been staying the whole week ever since.

 A week sure seems like a long time…expensive, too.  You don’t have geek out like me and stay the whole week.  Study the schedule and pick 2 or 3 days that will knock your socks off.  Come for that and see how it feels.  I used to feel like it was expensive too… until I got there and stared hearing everyone.  How much would you pay for the individual concerts (or lessons) with these folks if you could even buy the time with them?  It is really the deal of the year for concerts and inspiration.

Is it worth staying the week?  YES.  I’ve never regretted staying the whole time.  I have, however, regretted having to come home early.  Think of it like a bass fantasy camp that you get to hang out at all week.

What can I expect in a day?

  • Concerts:  We have recitals going on all day in just about every genre.  Go hear someone you’ve never heard of before.  Everyone who is playing has been handpicked.  I can guarantee you will be amazed.
  • Master Classes:  Our master teachers of bass from around the world will be giving master classes.  Whether you play for them or just listen to the sessions, you will be inspired.
  • Discussions, workshops, summits:  Learn more about how the great artists think and play their instruments.  Whether it is music business, early music, new music, improvisation, or pedagogy, you will be educated.
  • Exhibition & Bass Makers Competition:  Do you know what a great bass feels like in your hands?  It is pretty amazing.  Are you in the market for a bass?  strings?  bow? gear?  Meet the gear and their makers.  Try out over100 great instruments. Find out more about your gear and be knowledgeable.
  • Networking:  We are serious about our music and our instruments, but not necessarily about ourselves.  We sit together for the inspiration, talk about what we’ve experienced, and celebrate the joy of being bassists.  Hang out in this crowd and you will be connected.

Should I bring anything special with me?  Yes.  You don’t have to bring much, but it is important to be prepared.

  • Open Mind:  There is a lot of new stuff going on with the bass.  Be ready to have your assumptions of the instrument shattered.
  • Money for CDs, books & gear:  In addition to the exhibition, we have our own ISB store.  All the artists who are presenting will have their CDs, DVDs and books there for sale.  Don’t wait til the end of the week to check out the table.  You’ll go home disappointed.
  • Your bow.  You can use it to try out basses.  You can rent a bass during the week for things like the noon Amateur playing sessions, but it is harder to get a bow.
  • Camera:  Photo ops abound around every corner.