LowEnd Lab | June 2025 Session Recap
Last Saturday’s LowEnd Lab: Masterclass Sessions was everything we hoped for—grooves, growth, and genuine community. 🎉
On June 28th, the Bass Shed Academy hosted the first installment of the LowEnd Lab: Masterclass Sessions—a workshop series dedicated to electric and double bassists of all levels. The turnout was both inspiring and diverse, with players traveling from Rancho Cucamonga, Thousand Oaks, Long Beach, Pasadena, and all across Los Angeles to join in a powerful afternoon of music, learning, and connection.
Opening Performances: Music That Set the Tone
The event opened with a moving solo performance by Dr. Matt Hare, who performed his original composition “Barber 10:13.” The room fell silent as he explored the expressive range of the double bass with elegance and conviction.
Next, Bass Shed Academy founder Ryan Roberts joined clinician Steve Billman for a beautifully arranged duo performance that showcased the conversation between upright and electric bass. Billman then followed with a solo bass guitar performance of an original piece that blended melody, harmony, and groove in a compelling narrative—all on one instrument.
🎶 "It was the kind of moment that reminds you why we play bass in the first place—because it speaks volumes without saying a word."
Interactive Workshops: Where Learning Meets Community
Following the performances, attendees broke into two workshop tracks:
🎻 Classical Double Bass Workshop
Led by Dr. Matt Hare, this session focused on:
Positional shifting for efficient movement
Intonation accuracy through scale and interval work
Tone production and phrasing
Classical excerpts and technique building
Students were encouraged to bring in material they were working on, making the session both tailored and interactive.
🎸 Bass Guitar Workshop
In the electric bass room, Steve Billman led players through a deep dive into:
Time feel and subdivision
Groove vocabulary and pocket playing
Creating dynamic energy in rhythm section settings
Technique, articulation, and tone control
Billman also emphasized the importance of mastering fundamentals for long-term growth and provided exercises designed for continued practice.
A Supportive Space to Grow
What made this session truly stand out was the encouraging atmosphere. Participants of all ages and skill levels took turns performing material in front of their peers. Every note was met with applause, constructive feedback, and a shared appreciation for the work that goes into musicianship.
🗣️ “The supportive vibe made it easy to take risks and try things outside my comfort zone.”
Resources and Practice Tools
Every attendee left with downloadable materials including:
Rhythm Section Groove Level 1: a comprehensive timing and subdivision lesson
Play-along tracks (including “no bass” versions)
Tips for self-assessment through recorded practice
These tools ensure that the learning doesn’t stop when the workshop ends.
Looking Ahead: Join Us July 26
The next LowEnd Lab session takes place Saturday, July 26, featuring new material, fresh performances, and the same dedication to excellence, community, and creative expression.
🎟️ Click here to register for the next session.