Bass Renaissance – Reviving a 1910 Hawkes with Matt Rybicki

Double Bass and Beyond - Gary Upton of Upton Bass

Ever wondered what it takes to replicate a cherished instrument with precision and care? Join us as we uncover the secret world of custom bass design with our longtime friend and client, the talented Matt Rybicki. With two decades of collaborative projects under our belts, we revisit Matt's journey from hybrid bass models to his latest passion: recreating his beloved 1910 Hawkes bass. Listen to Matt’s fascinating story of using pencil-rubbing techniques on backdrop paper to capture the complex contours of his instrument, all while maneuvering around the bridge. Plus, we’ll explore Matt’s recent move to North Carolina and his significant contributions to bass education, including his Ray Brown book and upcoming courses.
Throughout our discussion, the craftsmanship and dedication to sound quality shine as we tackle the intricacies of bass design. Learn about approaches to creating remote replicas for noted musicians like Blake Hinson and Victor Wooten, and explore the unique qualities of flatback versus roundback designs with insights from Max Zeugner's Cassini bass experience. This episode celebrates the art of instrument-making, the joy of collaboration, and the anticipation of Matt finally playing his custom bass—a testament to years of shared passion and expertise. Whether you're a musician or simply fascinated by the process, this conversation is sure to resonate with bass enthusiasts and beyond.

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1. Creating a Custom Bass Design (00:00:00)

2. Discussing Flat Back Bass Design (00:11:40)

3. Collaborating on Bass Design Project (00:19:46)