This set of photos is from a couple months ago, but I'm excited I can finally share it. The fabulous Christian McBride gave a short lunch-hour masterclass to a group consisting of a large proportion of bass players at the Tango Del Rey back in June.

If you click on a photo, it will take you to the full photo gallery.



He's not yet 40, and already a bass legend. He's played with too many people to name, but perhaps you've heard of James Brown, Pat Metheny,  Sting, or Diana Krall? He's backed them up. You might have also seen him on recent covers of Bass Player Magazine and Downbeat.



He spent part of the time speaking about his experiences as a sideman for superstars as well as putting together his own groups. It's interesting to hear someone at this level talk about what drives him to work at getting better and not taking the easy way out, even though he could sit back at this point and relax instead of writing new music and taking on new challenges.

After a quick lunch break where he showed some things on piano, Christian played some solo bass tunes and then brought some people up on stage to join him.



I think I saw Joshua White smile more at this jam than every other show combined that I've shot him at.



Christian also plays drums and played as the other half of the rhythm section with Justin Grinnell, who was kind enough to lend his bass for this masterclass.



It was a blast being this close to a master, especially when he's willing to share some of his wisdom.