We’d love to hear from you!

If you’re passionate about becoming a dynamic, versatile, and high‑level bassist, there’s no better place to grow than the Baylor Double Bass Studio. We welcome driven students who are eager to challenge themselves, refine their artistry, and join a thriving community of musicians who support and inspire one another.

Information about applying to the Baylor Bass Studio can be found here.

If you’d like to learn more about the program, the studio culture, or what life as a Baylor bassist looks like, feel free to reach out—Dr. Ostlund is always happy to connect with prospective students and their families.

About the Baylor Double Bass Program

The Baylor University Double Bass Program offers an immersive, high‑level musical experience designed for students who aspire to perform, teach, create, and lead in today’s vibrant musical world. Our program is intentionally small—limited to approximately ten majors each year—ensuring that every bassist receives individualized mentorship, abundant performance opportunities, and a close-knit musical community.

All double bass majors study exclusively with Dr. Sandor Ostlund, a full-time, resident faculty artist known for his dynamic teaching, supportive studio culture, and commitment to each student’s long-term success.

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A Week in the Life of a Baylor Bassist

Students in the program enjoy a rich and varied weekly schedule that develops musical versatility and professional readiness. A typical week includes:

  • One-on-one private lesson with Dr. Ostlund

  • Studio Class featuring peer performance, pedagogy, and technique

  • Double Bass Orchestral Repertoire Class

  • Baylor Symphony Orchestra rehearsals

  • Additional rehearsals for Jazz Band, Jazz Combo, Early Music Ensemble, or Chamber Music

This combination nurtures well-rounded musicians who are comfortable performing across classical, jazz, early music, and contemporary genres.

Performance Opportunities

Baylor bassists have numerous opportunities to perform, often in multiple settings:

  • Solo recitals

  • Studio recitals

  • Chamber ensembles

  • The acclaimed Baylor Symphony Orchestra

  • Jazz ensembles and combos

  • Early music and new music ensembles

These frequent, diverse performance experiences accelerate musical growth and help students develop confidence and artistry on stage.

World-Class Guest Artists

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The program regularly hosts renowned guest bassists for masterclasses, workshops, and residencies. Past visitors have included:

François Rabbath • Paul Ellison • Harold Robinson • Gary Karr • Andrew Raciti • Joey Naeger • Robin Kesselman • Hans Sturm • Brian Perry • Samuel Suggs • Dennis Whittaker • Rufus Reid • Nick Lloyd • Time for Three

These interactions give students invaluable access to different schools of playing, professional perspectives, and international pedagogical traditions.

Our Alumni

Baylor double bass graduates carry forward a legacy of excellence. Alumni can be found:

  • Performing in major orchestras, military bands, chamber groups, jazz ensembles, and as soloists

  • Teaching at universities, conservatories, and schools around the country

  • Thriving as versatile, creative professionals in a wide range of musical careers

Their achievements reflect the program’s commitment to preparing musicians who are confident, adaptable, and artistically inspired.