TEACHING

Orchestral Bowing Workshop 2016

I joined the Double Bass Faculty at the Peabody Conservatory in the Fall semester of 2009, where I teach double bass lessons, solo and orchestral repertoire classes, technique classes, and sectionals. The Peabody Double Bass Department enrolls students filling two full size orchestras, pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in Music Performance, Music Education, Recording Arts, and related fields such as Composition, Musicology, and Computer Music. The Peabody Double Bass Department holds multiple departmental recitals per semester, giving students the opportunity to perform solo and chamber music repertoire.

I have taught wonderful students through the National Symphony Orchestra’s Youth Fellowship Program, a high school program aimed at providing intense focus for aspiring young students pursuing a career in music.
I have also worked with the NSO Summer Music Institute, teaching lessons and coaching chamber music.

Because I am passionate about music, the learning process, and the double bass as my vehicle, I teach students of all ages and learning styles. I am well versed in multiple bass pedagogical approaches, and use yoga, body awareness, and proper posture/bass setup as necessary resources for student development. My private studio has been ongoing for over a decade and we frequently hold an annual recital to commemorate our work done throughout the year.

Students have achieved placement in All-State Orchestras in Maryland, Virginia, and Texas, as well as highest rankings at solo and ensemble competitions. Many have attended the finest summer festivals, and have gone on to study at major universities and conservatories.

Connecting with major institutions and their faculty is very important to me, and I have had the privilege to be a guest teacher and performer at the leading colleges and conservatories in the United States.  Here are few places that I’ve visited recently: The Colburn School, University of Southern California, University of Colorado (Boulder), Colorado State University, and University of Denver.  ln 2014 I toured  University of Louisville, University of Michigan, Oberlin College, and the Cleveland Institute of Music as part of a recital/masterclass tour. The tour included four recitals in six days, and a World Premiere performance of Stephen Gorbos‘ Sounding Dawn, for bass and electronics.

For more information about joining my private studio, please email me at

irajgold@gmail.com