President's Corner — Volume 48 #2

What's Next for the ISB?

As we approach the International Society of Bassists' 60th anniversary, I find myself reflecting on how much has changed since our founding. In the early days, one of the ISB's primary goals was simple yet vital: to help bassists stay informed about developments related to their instrument. In a pre-internet world, this was a lifeline — a critical resource that fueled our growth and progress.

Today, as you read through this journal, you'll see that sharing knowledge remains central to our mission. But the !SB has evolved far beyond its beginnings. From a small group of passionate bassists meeting in Madison, Wisconsin in 1967, we've grown into a global community that spans genres, cultures, and generations — a home for innovation, education, and connection.

Now, as we celebrate all that we've accomplished, we must ask the big question:

What's next?

I'm excited to share that in January 2026, a group of !SB thought leaders gathered for an intensive retreat to explore this very question. Together, we wrestled with ideas that will shape the ISB's future:

• What unique value do we offer to bassists across generations, genres, and geographies?
• How can we ensure the !SB remains relevant and indispensable in today's rapidly evolving musical and nonprofit landscape?
• What fresh thinking, diverse perspectives, and innovative ideas will guide our next chapter with clarity and purpose?

The next 60 years will challenge us to think boldly. Our world — and our art — are changing faster than ever. Technology is transforming how we teach, perform, and share music. Traditional career paths are being reimagined. So, where does the !SB fit in?

This is not just a question for me or the !SB Board — it's our question. What do you want the !SB to be in the next five, ten, or sixty years? How can we ensure the bass remains at the heart of music for generations to come?

I look forward to sharing the outcomes of our retreat in future communications. In the meantime, I invite you to share your thoughts, dreams, and challenges. Reach out to me or any !SB board member — we are here to serve you.

Together, we'll write the next chapter of this extraordinary global family.

Sandor Ostlund
2025-2027 President, International Society of Bassists

Read this issue of Bass World, Volume 48 #2 (Members Only).

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