Double basses were judged on workmanship and tone, in addition to a blind, audience-voted sound-off event
The eleventh biennial International Society of Bassists (ISB) Makers Competition was held from 2-4 June 2025 at the Florida State University College of Music. Dustin Williams served as chair of this year’s competition, which attracted 15 entries from three countries.
The silver medal for workmanship went to Trevor Davis, Sam Morel and Gian Pangaro.
The silver medal for tone went to Benjamin Joella and Jacob Stone Pembelton. Pembleton also received a certificate for workmanship, along with Frederick Boissonnault, Benedict Puglisi and Mason Weedman.
Boissonnault and Weedman also received certificates for tone, while the convention favourite was awarded to Joella. Honorable mentions went to Andrew Hassel and Morel.
Competition basses were played from behind a curtain in the sound-off event, and voted on by the audience. The top five basses of the sound-off event were from Christopher Gutierrez, Sam Morel, Keiran O’Hara, Gian Pangaro and Gary Upton.
Workmanship was judged by Pablo Alfaro, Joey Naeger and Bill Scott. Tone was judged by Jay Meder, David Marray and John Schimek. The 2025 competition sponsor was Roberston & Sons Violin Shop.
Photo credits: Shane Kiser.
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