Florida State University’s College of Music is set to make history as it hosts the 2025 International Society of Bassists (ISB) Convention from June 2 to 7 — the first time the event will be held in the Southeast.
The week-long convention will bring together world-renowned bassists, educators and enthusiasts from across the globe for a series of masterclasses, workshops, lectures and performances. The event will showcase double bass contributions to jazz, classical and contemporary music.
“We are honored and excited to welcome the International Society of Bassists Convention to Tallahassee,” said Todd Queen, dean of FSU College of Music. “This event not only highlights the tremendous talent in the world of bass performance but also reinforces Tallahassee’s reputation as a destination for cutting-edge cultural events.”
The ISB is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and appreciation of the double bass, providing a platform for outstanding performers, educators and enthusiasts to share their passion and expertise. Through its biennial convention and various educational initiatives, the society continues to inspire and nurture the next generation of bassists worldwide, serving as a bridge between various musical traditions and the international music community.
“We are honored and excited to welcome the International Society of Bassists Convention to Tallahassee. This event not only highlights the tremendous talent in the world of bass performance but also reinforces Tallahassee’s reputation as a destination for cutting-edge cultural events.”
—Todd Queen, dean of FSU College of Music
Convention organizers anticipate more than 1,000 attendees from around the world, including bassists, exhibitors, guest musicians, family members and music enthusiasts. Participants will enjoy a wide range of events such as concerts, seminars, workshops, lecture-demonstrations, panel discussions, masterclasses and exhibits. The convention will also feature special programs like the Young Bassists initiative and the ISB Next Generation ensembles, designed especially for nonprofessional bassists.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring the ISB Convention to Tallahassee for the first time,” said ISB General Manager Madeleine Crouch. “FSU’s College of Music has been a great collaborator, and we’re ready for an inspiring week of all things bass.”
FSU bass professors Rodney Jordan, jazz, and George Speed, classical, have worked with the ISB to bring the convention to the region for the first time.
“We are so proud of the robust bass program we’ve built at FSU, with two strong studios that together provide a dynamic and comprehensive education for undergraduate and graduate bass students,” Speed said. “We’re thrilled by the opportunity to bring this world-renowned convention to our college of music.”
Evening Concert Series
From June 2 through 7, the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall will open its doors to the public at 7:30 p.m. for concerts featuring internationally acclaimed musicians. Each evening showcases a unique lineup of performances:
Monday, June 2
7:15 p.m. – Competition announcements
8 p.m. – Jared Beckstead
9 p.m. – Rufus Reid, legendary jazz bassist, recording artist, composer and educator
Tuesday, June 3
7:15 p.m. – Competition announcements
8 p.m. – Jack Warren with Grant Flick
9 p.m. – Nina Bernat, acclaimed classical bassist known for her distinctive approach to contemporary works
Wednesday, June 4
8 p.m. – Brian Bromberg, renowned jazz bassist recognized for his innovative style and industry impact
Thursday, June 5
8 p.m. – Lorraine Campet, esteemed bassist celebrated for her contributions to both classical and contemporary music
Friday, June 6
8 p.m. – Andrés Martin, virtuoso bassist known for seamlessly blending musical genres
Saturday, June 7
8 p.m. – Ron Carter with Donald Vega on piano. Carter is an iconic jazz bassist whose legacy has shaped the art form.
Tickets for these concerts will be available to the public for $10 at the ISB table in the Ruby Diamond lobby.
For additional information about the convention schedule, ticketing, or media inquiries, please visit isbworldoffice.com.