Interested in Double Bass?

The Baylor University School of Music is a vibrant, world-class training ground where talented double bass players are mentored, encouraged, challenged, and inspired. Double bass study provides students with a rigorous program designed to prepare students for successful, rewarding music careers. Admission to the studio is competitive and limited in size to approximately ten majors, which allows for a great deal of personal attention for each student as well as a selective admissions process. All double bass majors study with full-time, resident faculty member Dr. Ostlund during their entire time at Baylor.

A typical week for a double bass major at Baylor will look like the following:

• Private lesson
• Studio Class
• Double Bass Orchestral Repertoire Class
• Chamber Music rehearsals/coachings
• Rehearsals with the Baylor Symphony Orchestra
• Jazz Band/Jazz Combo/Early Music/Contemporary Music rehearsals

The Baylor Bass Studio regularly hosts guest artists. These inspiring visitors include: François Rabbath, Paul Ellison, Kate Jones, Harold Robinson, Gary Karr, Andrew Raciti, Robin Kesselman, Hans Sturm, Brian Perry, Samuel Suggs, Dennis Whittaker, and Rufus Reid.

Members of the Baylor Bass Studio with François Rabbath and Paul Ellison

Continuing a long tradition of musical excellence, double bass alumni of Baylor University perform in prominent solo, chamber, orchestral, and jazz settings, as well as hold positions at universities and schools throughout the country.

Performance Opportunities

Baylor double bass students have numerous opportunities to perform every semester in solo and studio recitals, and in chamber, jazz, early music, and new music ensembles. The School of Music ensembles regularly travel both nationally and internationally. These frequent performance opportunities serve as a catalyst for musical growth and development.

All double bass majors perform with the prestigious, award-winning Baylor Symphony Orchestra. This remarkable orchestra has won the American Prize an unprecedented five out of six years.

The Baylor Symphony Orchestra

The Baylor School of Music also hosts both the Concerto and the Sempre Pro Musica competitions which allow students to compete for prestigious performance and travel opportunities.

Additionally, there are a number of orchestras in the central Texas that students can audition for and enjoy performing with.

Degree Options

The Baylor University School of Music offers a number of different degree plans so you can choose the degree that best suits your interests and aspirations (see the Degree Plans page for more details).

• Bachelor of Music
• Bachelor of Music Education
• Bachelor of Arts in Music
• Secondary Major in Instrumental Music Performance
• Master of Music

Applying to the Baylor University School of Music

Please find information on the How to Apply page. Questions regarding your application? Please contact our Admissions and Recruiting Coordinator, Mary Sage

Generous Scholarships and Graduate Assistantships are available.

Members of the Baylor Bass Studio with Sandor Ostlund and Houston Symphony Principal Double Bassists Robin Kesselman.