Guest artists set for Bass Fest in February, registration underway

An international musical flavor, a tradition at Bass Fest, awaits high school students who attend the day-long celebration of all things double bass on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2020.

Bass Fest is open to bassists of all ages and levels; pre-registration is required. The deadline to apply to participate in the competition is Jan. 15, 2020. The deadline to apply for the master class performance is Feb. 1. Registration fee is $40. Details and registration information can be accessed online at: www.fredonia.edu/music/community/bassfest

Lauren Pierce, an international soloist and educator, and Danny Ziemann, an international jazz artist, educator and publisher, will serve as guest artists of the event that includes a double bass competition for students, as well as workshops, master classes and performances.

Both artists have developed careers in a very unique way, using social media platforms, online/distance learning and publications as part of their musical contributions, explained School of Music Assistant Professor Kieran Hanlon, who will join Ms. Pierce and Mr. Ziemann.

Pierce is considered a generational instrumentalist gifted with the technique necessary to excel on her instrument, as well as a flair and presentation that amaze those who watch her musically navigate on the double bass. She studied at the University of South Carolina and the University of North Texas (UNT), where, as a teaching fellow, she maintained a studio of college-age double bassists and ran master classes for the full double bass studio.

While at UNT, Pierce participated in an American String Teachers Association competition and an International Society of Bassists competition. Her popularity through performance videos on YouTube is viewed as unparalleled in the classical music world. She is regarded as a musical innovator through her performing and teaching.

Pierce’s performance repertoire is considered exceptional for the double bass, as she takes risks playing works designed for more versatile and manageable, smaller instruments. Critics have found her flair and presentation almost magical. She is a frequent clinician at workshops, including the Bradetich Summer Bass Camp, Austin Bass Workshop and Bassmania at Columbus State University.

Ziemann, a freelance musician and educator based in Vienna, Austria, has toured extensively throughout North America, Europe and Asia. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music, he has taught there and also at SUNY Oswego and Eastman Community Music School. He is actively creating educational content, is a three-time author and tutor for the online Discover Double Bass. 

Interest in writing led Ziemann to create Low Down Publishing, a company that provides high-quality music education materials for teachers.