THE EVOLVING BASSIST
Millennium edition
A Comprehensive Method In Developing A Total Musical Concept For The Aspiring Jazz Bass Player

This edition will mark twenty-six years in publication, as the industry standard for bass method books. Through the years since this book was first published, Rufus began to feel that a major revision was needed. The fundamental material has been kept intact because classic concepts do not change. Rufus says, "The responsibilities of the jazz bassist are astronomical. It is not just walking quarter notes. The individual creativity needs to be nurtured without diluting the job description of a jazz bassist. My experience from performing and teaching has taught me that there were more things that needed to be addressed and stated more clearly. In addition, I have always wanted to integrate the information in my second book, Evolving Upward, Bass Book II. It now completes the concepts for developing upper thumb position technique which is essential to the musical palette of the contemporary bass player."

This new edition will also include more transcriptions from his recorded solos, original compositions arranged as duets, new etudes and additional ways to learn tunes and conceive better bass lines. Information is given dealing with practical, "real life" situations for traveling and recording. Answers to frequently asked questions about amplification, equipment, electronic pickups, and microphones are also included.

THE EVOLVING BASSIST is designed to take you through the process to help you become that consummate bass player. It is dedicated to the student who may have difficulty finding and/or being able to afford a regular teacher. This method book is an aid to help you help yourself now. It will also continue to be be your reference book as you and your playing mature through the years.

BASS DAY '97 was the first of what has become an annual event. It was organized by the Bass Collective, NYC, and Bass Player Magazine. Recorded that day was the performance of the Rufus Reid - Michael Moore Duo. This performance and educational video features 8 duets that showcase their soloing and accompanist abilities, both with the bow and pizzicato. Additionally, during the Q & A section, they address such topics as bowing, soloing in a two-bass setting, theory and harmony and equipment. while offering advice to aspiring double bassists.

Since first performing a month of Sundays together at Zinno Restaurant in 1995, they have continued their collaboration, being chosen to perform at the Memphis Bass Symposium in 1997, The International Association of Jazz Educators Conference in 1999, and The International Society of Bassists Convention in June of 1999.

They have recorded two CD's, for Double-Time Records. "Double Bass Delights" was released in 1996. John Corbett of DownBeat says "Here's a project with nothing but bass. Moore and Reid share all duties, including comping, walking, swinging, soloing and stating the tunes. Their strong playing is well portrayed in a clear, warm recording. Material ranges from standards like "Tea For Two," "They Can't Take That Away From Me," and "Sophisticated Lady" to the harmonically intriguing Joe Henderson piece, "Recordame." Sam Jones' stepwise "Seven Minds" has a shared line and tandem groove handled most wickedly by the twin instrumentalists."

In 1999, The Intimacy of the Bass was released. Simon Wolff of Double Bassists Magazine writes, "The duo's repertoire features standards and jazz classics, intelligently presented in short cogent performances. At once firmly rooted in tradition, yet entirely fresh and contemporary, this is music which transcends the limitations of its format and should appeal not just to bassists, but to anyone with open ears and a love of good jazz. This recording features two originals each by Michael and Rufus and exemplifies the wonderful humor these bassists have. Listen to Michael's" When I Wage Battle, Next," and Rufus' "Almost But Maybe." There are also some classic gems like "Sweet Lorraine," "Someone To Watch Over Me," and a great swinging Duke Ellington composition, "The Feeling of Jazz."

This bass ensemble arrangement, "When She Smiles Upon Your Face," is written for four or five Double Basses with an optinal piano part. It includes the score the all the parts.

The melody was originally composed for the 80th birthday of a dear family member who is also an exceptional pianist. This particular arrangement was written specifically for the June, 1999, International Society of Bassists Convention. It was. performed by John Clayton, Michael Moore, Martin Wind and Rufus Reid. They were joined by master pianist/composer, Bill Mays.

This composition was sung as a ballad by Grady Tate with TanaReid on their CD "Back To Front" Evidence Music ECD 22206-2. This CD is also available on my order sheet, or on TanaReid's ordei/sheet.

You can order this arrangement from Ludwin Music