The Rosin Revelation - Crafting the Perfect Grip with Gary Upton and Blake Hinson

Double Bass and Beyond - Gary Upton of Upton Bass

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.