March 22.–29., 2015 at Kloster Michaelstein (Blankenburg/Harz, Germany)

“Kaleidoscope” – that brings to mind the eyes of astonished children when they see colourful stars light up. Coming to Michaelstein for the first time, some participants are astonished in a similar way by the special atmosphere of the “Double-Bass Kaleidoscope”: there’s spontaneous improvisation in the evening over olives, wine and cheese, and many “classical” players turn out to be practised jazz musicians; fingering, bowing and types of rosin are discussed in the meadow, over table tennis and in the monastery garden; everyone practises, rehearses and performs tirelessly; impressive concerts are given. Above all, there is learning in a carefree, relaxed and open way. No pressure to succeed, no showcase, no competition. “The most superb bass festival there is!” some participants say. Is it because people have the opportunity to look beyond the end of their own nose and to have open exchanges about various playing techniques, musical interpretations and first audition experiences? Are the morning warm-up exercises or the evening table-tennis tournaments the reason? Is it due to the fantastic nature surrounding the Michaelstein monastery, or the first-class conditions found here? Or is it simply all of these things that make the event something special? However it may be… come and join us too, get an idea of it and benefit from double-bass soloists from around the world passing on their experiences.

Silvio Dalla Torre (Rostock/GER)
Stanislau Anishchanka (Köln/GER)
Matthias Weber (Stuttgart/GER)
Luo Bing (Shanghai/CHN)
Frank Thönes (Rostock/GER) – Neue Musik
Christian Weber (Zürich/CH) – Jazz
Joshua Cheatham (Utrecht/B) – Alte Musik
Angela Gebler (München/GER) – Physiotherapie

more informations and registration: www.kontrabass-kaleidoskop.de; registration deadline: February 22, 2015.