Richard Davis
Annual
Bass Conference

Every Easter Weekend since 1993 young bassists from around the country and their families convene for the Richard Davis Foundation for Young Bassists annual Conference. 

SAVE THE DATE!
March 29th - 30th, 2024

The bass conference is not just for youths (age 3-18) who play the bass, it is also a very important weekend for families too.

Events are designed to be enjoyable and enlightening to teach these young bassists biggest fans, their families. Siblings and parents are involved in the weekend through Q&A sessions, workshops, and performance events of their own.

Conference Info

Location. The conference is held in Madison, WI although the location may change from year-to-year. Check the registration form for specific annual details.

Time. The conference runs 9:00 a.m.– 9:00 p.m. Friday, and 9:00 a.m.– 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

Cost for Student. Tuition for the 2-day conference is $350 per student. This tuition fee covers expenses related to music, clinicians, media rentals, accompanist(s) and the venue. Meals and hotel rooms are not included in this cost.

Family Members. Parents/guardians are expected to be on the premises for the duration of the conference for all young bassists under age 17. Family members/guardians accompanying young bassists are encouraged to attend sessions.

Meals. Clinicians, volunteers, families & young bassists are all encouraged to attend meals together. It is a great time to get to know each other in an informal setting. Conference meals are typically held at noon and 5, Friday and Saturday. Specific details will be found on your registration form.

Housing. Young bassists from all around the country have traveled for this event for years. Typically, the Foundation organizes a discounted rate/room block by partnering with a local hotel. Check registration form for specific details on each annual arrangement.  Possibility of arranging alternative accommodations (such as a home-stay) may be possible given ample notification at least a month in advance of the conference.

Schedule & Concerts. Friday is typically a Faculty Concert – an opportunity for young players to be inspired, and see advanced bass playing. Saturday is the All-Conference Bass Concert where all students get an opportunity to play in a group setting. Both concerts are typically (unless advertised otherwise) free (not ticketed), and open to the public.

Program

Here is an example schedule of what you can expect…