Inspire, Educate, Connect
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About the International Society of Bassists
The ISB was founded by the world-renowned virtuoso Gary Karr in 1967. With some 3,000 members in over 40 countries, the ISB is an organization for those who teach, study, play, repair, build and enjoy the double bass. The ISB is a forum for communication among bassists throughout the world and across a wide variety of musical styles. Members receive our journal, Bass World, three times per year and are the first to receive email communications regarding upcoming events, bass news, and more. Every two years the ISB holds an international convention and double bass competition, a composition contest, and now, a maker's competition. If you love the double bass, become a member of the International Society of Bassists today!
Coming Soon!
Expanding the Repertoire: Andrés Martin’s Compositional World
Saturday, April 19, 2025 — Step into the creative world of renowned composer and bassist Andrés Martín in this Center Stage conversation. Interviewed by Max Winningham, Martín will explore his compositional process, his philosophical approach to music-making, and how he interacts with the world through music. The discussion will also explore his latest commission consortium, led by the contemporary chamber ensemble Terracotta Duo, which is set to bring an exciting new work for percussion and double bass to life. Don’t miss this open-hearted exchange with some of today's most prolific composers for the double bass! This is a free event open to all. Register now, space is limited!
ISB 2025 Convention
ISB is headed to Florida State University College of Music in Tallahassee, Florida for the ISB 2025 Convention, taking place June 2-7, 2025. Make plans now to join us for all the performances, lectures, masterclasses, exhibits, and a week-long program for young bassists for ages 18 and under.
YB / NextGen 2025
Are you 18 or under and looking for special opportunities for bassists who have not yet started college? Want to work with some of the world's leading performers and teachers at a convention designed just for you? Join us at the ISB 2025 Convention for masterclasses, a recital, a showcase, ensembles, technique classes, special workshops, and more!
President's Corner
During the winter holidays, I enjoyed the many ways we are in community with each other. Family, friends, musical colleagues, neighbors, spiritual communities, just to name a few. And in my work as an arts-in-health administrator, I see the way different communities . . . .
ISB AmBASSadors Blog
International Society of Bassists AmBASSadors share information to inspire, educate, and connect double bass players, teachers, and makers from around the world.
ISB members and non-members alike are welcome! To learn more and / or sign up for updates, click the button below.
Store / Rental Library
The ISB Online Store has relaunched on the Shopify platform, with a sharp new look and improved mobile functionality. Browse through hundreds of products offered by ISB members - music scores, methods, books, recordings and of course, The Gary Karr Store.
Membership
As an ISB member, you are helping to build a worldwide double bass community that connects people, music and ideas every day, in new and often unexpected ways. Member benefits include . . .
Bass World
Members receive Bass World magazine three times a year in the mail, as a digital flipbook, or both!
Read the latest issue of Bass World, Volume 47 Number 2, featuring David Perlman.
Make a Donation
If you love the double bass and benefit from the many ways the ISB brings the worldwide double bass community together, then we need your support!
Directories
Members can be listed in our Teacher, Luthier, or Rent-a-Bass directories. Looking for an instructor? Looking for a studio or shop that does repairs or sells instruments and accessories? Traveling and need to rent a bass? Search for teachers, luthiers, or basses to rent by name or location.
Bass Insurance
ISB members in good standing are eligible for a group rate on instrument insurance from Anderson Musical Instrument Insurance Solutions, LLC.
Resource Library
ISB Members may browse through 40+ years of publications and learn more about the double bass's history and future in the George Vance Online Resource Library.