Chicago Bass Works

04/09/2026

New top for Nico, new shop assistant

04/09/2026

New bass top for #14 for Nico, new shop assistant and bass inspector Lucy

03/26/2026

Just fit this cosmic bass bar for #14. Super excited to get this finished to see how it sounds.

This bar was developed by Mario Lamarre in the 1990's.

01/11/2026

Do you prefer French, German, or Belgian style bridges? I was asked to carve a Belgian style bridge for the "Ladybird" bass by Bob Stoltenberg. Having carved hundreds of cello bridges in this style I've never done a bass version. I like how it turned out and the bass sounded fantastic.

12/29/2025

All I want for Christmas is a bridge with feet that actually touch the top.

11/12/2025

New C extension for this 1685 Italian bass labeled Busan, played in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for 50 years by Joe Guastefeste. I was extremely honored to be tasked with doing the work on this legendary bass. I was able to convert this from a five-string to a four-string with a more modern setup so it's very easy to play and is a real wall shaker.

It's going on sale at A440 Violins soon, please reach out to them if you'd like to try it. I'd highly recommend you at least play this bass if you get the chance!! It is truly a once in a lifetime instrument.

10/26/2025

New C extension for from Puerto Rico who flew to Chicago for the weekend so I could make this for him! Very pleased with how this one turned out, and honored to do the work!

03/02/2025

Not bass related, but I wanted to share. After 30+ years I finally earned my black belt in Taekwondo! It's never too late to reach your goals. Big thank you to my family and to .

Also Slava Ukraini!

01/21/2025

If you'd like to message me, please contact me through my website! Thanks!!

Chicago Bass Works specializes in the setup, repair, and construction of the double bass. Looking for a bass luthier? Schedule an appointment today!

11/20/2024

I had a blast at VSA 2024 in Indianapolis today, really grateful to all the people who said hi and even checked out my bass! I'm HONORED to have finally got to meet Mario Lamarre after admiring and fishing over his work for more than a decade. He had some really kind and insightful comments about my instrument. Thanks also to .rihani Sam Brown Chris Peterson and especially for hosting me at his booth.

10/23/2024

Beautiful maple tailpiece crafted by , finished by me. He did a great job designing and crafting this!!

10/18/2024

I'm loving how this varnish glows under the sun. As soon as I get the new tuners in I can start setting it up!

In order the work left from here:
Saddle, machine tuners, nut, soundpost, endpin, tailpiece, bridge, strings, c-extension. Then it's ready to live!