The Festival’s Signature Concert

October 31, 2026, 8:00 p.m., Stadtsaal Burghausen

Masters of Bass is the highlight of the Bavarian Bassdays and the festival’s showcase event. It brings together world-renowned artists, rising talents, and an enthusiastic audience for an unforgettable concert celebrating the remarkable versatility of the double bass and electric bass in all their musical dimensions.

International Stars of the Bass World

This year’s concert features four outstanding personalities from the international bass world:

DaXun Zhang

DaXun Zhang is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading double bass soloists. As the first double bassist ever to win the prestigious Young Concert Artists International Auditions, he also received the Avery Fisher Career Grant and has performed as a soloist with major orchestras around the globe. As a member of Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble, he brings together musical traditions from around the world at the highest artistic level.

Ida Nielsen

Ida Nielsen gained worldwide recognition as Prince’s longtime bassist. With her unmistakable blend of funk, soul, rock, and jazz, she has become one of the most inspiring electric bass players of her generation.

Bruce Gertz

Bruce Gertz is one of the leading figures in international jazz bass. A professor at Berklee College of Music, he has influenced generations of musicians and is internationally respected as a performer, composer, and educator.

Claus Freudenstein

Claus Freudenstein, founder of the Bavarian Bassdays, is internationally known for his innovative bass projects. His artistic work builds bridges between classical music, jazz, and contemporary styles, combining virtuosity with creativity and musical curiosity.

The Bavarian Big Bass Orchestra

A special highlight of the evening is the legendary Bavarian Big Bass Orchestra. Every participant of the Bavarian Bassdays performs together on one stage—from the youngest Minibass student to internationally acclaimed bass stars.

More than 40 bassists unite in a spectacular sound experience, opening the concert with a work specially composed for this extraordinary ensemble.

The program is further enriched by special guest artists from the distinguished faculty of the current Bavarian Bassdays.

This unique encounter between young talent and world-class artists is exceptional not only in Europe but around the globe. Very few festivals bring together children, students, amateur musicians, and internationally acclaimed performers on the same stage in one concert. It is precisely this spirit that makes the Bavarian Bassdays and Masters of Bass truly unique.