My Double Bass Journey To Dusseldorf
During the week, she worked on phrasing, bow techniques, sound projection and tone. Valdo Zatko also discussed physical / posture health for bassists. There were so much information for her to process; the musical and cultural influences will benefit her learning journey for the years to come. She enjoyed every lesson and made lots of friends.
It was a total surprise to me when my mother told me that I was going to a masterclass in Germany. She told me that my YouTube audition was successful and that the organisers were excited to hear me play.
I was concerned about how I was going to bring my bass as it was very large and bulky. Further good news was, they had sourced a rare ¼ German bass for me.
My classes started the very next day we got to there. I was very jet lagged, I could barely open my eyes after 3pm. It was already passed midnight in Sydney.
Mr. Vlado Zatko was such a wonderful teacher. During the Masterclasses he taught me control my bow speed to make the song a little more interesting and creating different moods in the piece to tell a story. We went through my Koussvisky Concerto in details. He showed me different phrasing and dynamics I could do. However, Mr. Zatko said that ultimately, it was up to me as an artist to express what how I want to tell my story.
He also taught me some other things like trying to play standing up. Apparently when I sat down to play, my leg would act as a mute and the sound of my bass wouldn’t 100% project to the audience. I also had a little try at using the German bow hold as it was more common for people to be using that bow where we were in that area.
He also taught me some other things like trying to play standing up. Apparently when I sat down to play, my leg would act as a mute and the sound of my bass wouldn’t 100% project to the audience. I also had a little try at using the German bow hold as it was more common for people to be using that bow where we were in that area.
During the classes, we also learnt about how to keep our muscles relaxed and avoid injuries from playing. I’m glad to know my current physical activities, like stretching my arms and legs are all very beneficial.
I thought it was a great experience trying new techniques and different styles of playing a scale in a more interesting way. I really enjoyed the masterclasses and would hope to do another one soon. I thought it helped me to become a better Bass player and pursue my musical career.
I thought it was a great experience trying new techniques and different styles of playing a scale in a more interesting way. I really enjoyed the masterclasses and would hope to do another one soon. I thought it helped me to become a better Bass player and pursue my musical career.
Izzy attracted lots of attention. The organisers and teachers said they have never have seen a child bassist play at Izzy's level. She was appreciated for her talent and musicianship. Izzy is truly lucky to have such wonderful learning opportunity and experience. We are really grateful that she has strong support from her teacher Mr. Henery and of course all the staff and friends of SYO.
You can See Izzy perform at the Summer Showcase on Saturday 8 December
