ISB 2025 Convention Presenter — Sam Morel

Originally from Bretagne, France, Sam Morel is a skilled double bass maker and restorer, blending years of expertise with a passion for fine craftsmanship. After studying at the prestigious Mirecourt School of Luthiery, Sam spent five years working alongside the renowned luthier Patrick Charton, where he not only crafted over thirty double basses for musicians on four different continents, but also performed high-end restorations on a multitude of antique instruments. Today, he splits his time between restoring instruments at Finlay & Gage in New York City and crafting new, custom double basses in his home studio in Brooklyn. Since establishing his own studio, Sam has continued to create instruments for prestigious clients, including the US Air Force and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), as well as independent musicians across North America and Europe. Recognized with prizes at the VSA Competition and the ISB Maker's Competition for both workmanship and sound quality, Sam’s instruments are renowned for their tonal richness, playability, and meticulous craftsmanship.