"I have realized that none of you are normal. Not a single one of you."
-Alan Woy
Formed in September 2004, Acid Bass began as a strictly classical chamber ensemble, comprised of four freshman music education majors at the Crane School of Music in Potsdam, NY. Since then, the group has developed a reputation as the most popular chamber ensemble in Potsdam - as well as the youngest and most diverse bass clarinet quartet in the world.
Early performances occurred primarily within the clarinet studio, or as part of sporadic area recitals within Crane. Additionally, the group was featured with the Crane Clarinet Choir on two separate occasions.
Things took a turn in Spring 2006, with the addition of Jon "Shmu" Shmuel, after their fourth bass clarinetist died in a bizarre gardening accident. (The authorities said, you know, best leave it unsolved.) From there, the group branched out into a broader range of styles – including classical, jazz, klezmer, and rock/metal covers.
Current members include:
Matt "Bass Boi" Doi (Selmer Paris 37 bass, Fobes mouthpiece)
Sarah "Chin" Celona (Yamaha 622 bass, Fobes mouthpiece)
Jeanine "J9" Ouderkirk (Yamaha 622 bass, Fobes mouthpiece)
Jon "Shmu" Shmuel (Buffet Prestige bass, Selmer C* mouthpiece)
Shmu also plays Eb and Bb contrabass clarinets when necessary.
All instruments used by Acid Bass are capable of playing down to low C.
In Spring 2007, the group announced that they would be parting ways due to student teaching placements and graduation.
The Acid Bass Farewell Concert, the first installment of the Crane Impromptu Recital Series, was held on May 6th, 2007, in Snell Theater. The program, approximately 75 minutes in length, was an endearing mix of class and utter ridiculousness. The group received a standing ovation from an audience of nearly one hundred students and faculty members. They also received 838 professional-quality photos by fellow bass clarinetist, Marshall "Mush" Hughes.
During its hiatus from performing, Acid Bass will gradually take over the internet through MySpace and Facebook. Stay tuned for updates on possible reunion plans!
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