The Bass Summit was founded in 2008 by San Diego bassist, educator, and composer Rob Thorsen with one simple goal: to celebrate one of music's most essential—and often overlooked—instruments.

What began as a gathering of a handful of Southern California's finest bassists has grown into an annual tradition that brings together performers, educators, students, and music lovers for an unforgettable evening dedicated entirely to the bass.

Unlike a typical concert, the Bass Summit is a musical conversation. Throughout the evening, audiences experience the remarkable versatility of the instrument through jazz, classical, Latin, world music, contemporary works, improvisation, and original compositions. Featured artists perform individually, in small ensembles, and in large collaborative performances that showcase both the technical brilliance and expressive power of the bass.

Over the years, the Summit has welcomed internationally recognized artists, legendary educators, symphony musicians, jazz masters, and rising young performers to the same stage. It has featured icons such as Bert Turetzky, Marshall Hawkins, Mark Dresser, Susan Wulff, Barry Green, Gunnar Biggs, and many more, alongside the next generation of outstanding bassists. The event has become known not only for extraordinary performances, but for fostering mentorship, community, and lifelong musical friendships.

Education has always been at the heart of the Bass Summit. Clinics, masterclasses, and student performances have provided aspiring musicians with rare opportunities to learn directly from some of the world's most accomplished bassists. Whether someone is picking up the instrument for the first time or has spent decades performing professionally, the Summit celebrates the idea that there is always something new to discover through music.

Founder Rob Thorsen has spent more than three decades performing, recording, composing, and teaching throughout Southern California and beyond. Known for his warm, collaborative approach and deep respect for the tradition of the instrument, he has built a career connecting people through music. The Bass Summit is a reflection of that philosophy—a place where artistry is celebrated, knowledge is shared, and every performer has a voice.

Today, the Bass Summit continues to be one of Southern California's most unique musical events. Each year offers a new lineup, new collaborations, and new opportunities to experience the incredible range of the bass—from delicate solo performances to powerful ensemble works that fill the room with sound.

Whether you're a lifelong bassist, a fellow musician, a student, or simply someone who loves great live music, we invite you to join us as we celebrate the instrument that quite literally holds music together.

Welcome to the Bass Summit.