Students perform chamber music. Double bass, flute, clarinet, and harp students pictured.
Double bass student performs in a chamber ensemble for the annual Orientation Recital in Finney Chapel. Photo credit: Yevhen Gulenko
Program Overview

Double Bass

Program Type: Major
  • Bachelor of Music (BM)
Division: Strings

Study of the double bass is centered on the broad experiences of our faculty, who provide students with rigorous instruction tailored to their needs and goals as a musician. Our goal is to develop students’ talents to the highest musical and professional levels through private lessons, coaching, instrumental technique, master classes, and a range of performance opportunities.

Strings Division Director

Peter Slowik Professor of Viola

Contact

Cindy Shairba Administrative Assistant 440-775-8198
Five double bassists performing in an orchestra on the Finney Chapel stage.
The Oberlin Orchestra double bass section in a performance in Finney Chapel. Photo credit: Larry Kasperek

Large Ensembles

Students have many opportunities to perform in ensembles large and small from the moment they arrive on campus. The conservatory's large instrumental ensembles include the Oberlin Orchestra,  Oberlin Chamber Orchestra, Oberlin Baroque Orchestra, Contemporary Music Ensemble, and the Oberlin Jazz Ensemble. These and other groups contribute to the busy calendar of nearly 500 concerts presented on campus each year. Whether you play with a large group or a chamber music ensemble you’ve put together, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to expand your repertoire and perform for entusiastic audiences.

Performance Ensembles

Winter Term

Oberlin’s four-week winter term in January encourages students to discover the value of self-directed education. You may pursue individual or group projects that are directly linked to your field of study or explore opportunities unrelated to your major. Complete your project on or off campus.

Student Clubs and Organizations

Student Senate, Chess Club, Solarity, the Oberlin Review—these are among the more than 175 student groups and clubs available to you. From politics to faith and identity, and from special interest to sports, Oberlin has an array of clubs eager for new members, new ideas, and new leadership.

Sample Courses

  • APST 285 - Orchestra Rep for Double Bass 2 credits
  • APST 812 - Double Bass Ensemble 2 credits
  • PVST 097 - Historical Basses 2 credits
  • PROF 171 - Practicing Music Journalism 4 credits
Curriculum and requirements

Double Bass Faculty

Conservatory faculty maintain active performance schedules while remaining accessible and committed to their students. Individual instruction is paramount to helping students develop their mechanical, technical, stylistic, psychological, and musical skills.

Explore Faculty within Double Bass

Double Bass News

View all Double Bass news