Reader Spotlight: Steve Rosati

Like many we’ve featured in the spotlight here, bassist Steve Rosati comes from a strong musical family. Four generations strong.

Our paths have crossed with Steve before – at NAMM and at Gerald Veasley’s Bass Bootcamp – and we even got to witness his quasi-Jazz ensemble at the Bass and the Beatles concert at this year’s Bass Bootcamp.

Steve is our player in the spotlight for the week of April 8, 2013.

Bio:

I’ve been playing bass since I was six years old, and I am a 4th generation musician in my family. I studied bass at Moravian College and continued my education studying privately with Matt Garrison, Tony Grey and Janek Gwizdala. My other learning experience came from playing with Steve Kimock (Steve Kimock Band, The Other Ones) and Chuck Hammer (David Bowie and Lou Reed) and whoever I can grab insight from. I am always working on my craft.

Location:

Bethlehem, PA

Day gig:

Musician, teacher and Apple specialist

Years experience:

29 years

Bands & Gigs:

Yes, I have my quasi Jazz ensemble the Riverside Jazz Explosion. We say we cover the spectrum from pop to bop.

I continue to work with Chuck Hammer and any session work that comes my way.

Gear:

• I have a very Special Fodera. It’s a one of a kind AJ presentation 4. It’s my baby
• I have a Takamine TB 10 modified it to make it more fun.
• A Roth DB dated 1923 – the same bass that Mingus had.
• I use all Phil Jones bass amps, cabs and cables.

Why I play the bass:

My father. We always had pianos in the house, and I always gravitated to the low end so my dad figured we’d make it official.

My bass superpower/claim to fame

Being able to solo over changes and change style on the fly.

My influences

Steve Swallow, Charles Mingus, Trevor Dunn, Stan Getz, Duke Ellington, Matt Garrison, Janek Gwizdala, John Coltrane and Miles… I add more every day.

More on the web:

• Riverside Jazz Explosion on Reverbnation
• Website
• Riverside Jazz Explosion on Reverbnation