As a bassist at Lamont, you will study with Colorado Symphony bassist Susan Cahill. Along with a robust performance career, Professor Cahill brings an innovative teaching style. Professor Cahill's studio emphasizes rigorous practice, frequent performance opportunities, and the study of both standard and modern repertoire. As a result, students are prepared to thrive in a variety of professional contexts.

As an undergraduate you have the option of exploring different contexts through our senior year recital 'Track' program. You may choose one of the following:

  • Multi Instrumental Techniques for bassists 
  • Chamber Techniques for bassists 
  • Orchestral Auditioning for bassists 
  • Composition and improvisation for bassists
  • Not for profit Study for bassists 
  • Pedagogy and Studio Creation for bassists 
  • You may also choose to do a traditional senior recital instead of one of the above options.

Professor Cahill spoke in detail about her reimagined approach to senior recitals on the podcast "Contrabass Conversations." 

Before joining the Colorado Symphony, where she has held section as well as acting assistant positions, Cahill was principal bass of the Louisiana Philharmonic in New Orleans. She is also a member of the faculty of the Colorado College Summer Music Festival. With Extasis she has performed as soloist at the BASS2010 double bass convention in Berlin, Germany and has had numerous solo performances in Colorado with Up Close and Musical, the Colorado Youth Sinfonia, and with the Colorado Symphony in 2002. 

Auditions

Applicants may choose to either audition in person in Denver OR submit a recorded video audition and complete a Zoom interview. 

 

Applications received after January 15 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. You may indicate your preference for a live or virtual audition on the Lamont application.

Click here to view the current year’s audition/interview dates and the full steps for how to apply.

Live Audition

All auditions are approximately 15 minutes in length. The applicant will choose one of their prepared works to perform. The faculty will choose the second of the prepared works and possibly an additional work as well.

Recorded Video Audition & Zoom Interview

Applicants unable to travel to Denver for a live audition may submit an unedited video audition via the Lamont application AND will complete a live Zoom interview. 

The 10-minute interview will consist of a Q&A and a brief live performance of one of the prepared audition pieces.

Audition Repertoire Requirements

Undergraduate (BM, BA and Minor)

  • Prepare 15 minutes of music that represents the best of your playing. We encourage you to explore composers of traditionally under represented groups in one or more of your selections. Please feel free to bring repertoire that you have prepared for other college auditions, if that is your preference.
View Jazz Requirements

Graduate (MM and Certificate in Performance)

  • Prepare 15 minutes of music that represents the best of your playing. We encourage you to explore composers of traditionally under represented groups in one or more of your selections. Please feel free to bring repertoire that you have prepared for other college auditions, if that is your preference.

Review requirements for Artist Diploma
Review requirements for Certificate in Orchestral Studies

View Jazz Requirements

Faculty

 
Susan Cahill holding a double bass

Susan Cahill

Adjunct Faculty

Learn More

 

  • Susan Cahill

    Susan Cahill.

  • double bass
  • double bass
  • double bass
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