David J. Grossman double bass master class at the Liszt Academy

Date, venue: 

6th November 2025, 14:00-16:00; Main building, Room X

Double bassist and composer David J. Grossman exemplifies the modern virtuoso, seamlessly bridging the worlds of jazz and classical music. A true musical polymath, he performs in jazz clubs, concert halls, and chamber music venues worldwide, bringing the same passion and artistry to every stage.

In the jazz world, Mr. Grossman was a member of the acclaimed Marcus Roberts Trio and has collaborated with legendary artists including Wynton Marsalis, Lew Tabackin, Toshiko Akiyoshi, and Mark O'Connor. His deep roots in jazz inform everything he does, bringing swing, improvisation, and creative freedom to all of his musical endeavors. His dual passion for both jazz and classical music is perfectly captured in his two albums—

The Bass of Both Worlds—which showcase his mastery in both genres.

Born and educated in New York City, Mr. Grossman joined the New York Philharmonic as its youngest member in Spring 2000, shortly before graduating from The Juilliard School, where he studied with the legendary Orin O'Brien. He continues with the Philharmonic and also serves as Principal Bassist with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, performing regularly in chamber music settings including at Merkin Hall, the 92nd Street Y, and with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center.

As a dedicated educator serving on the faculty at both the Manhattan School of Music and the Mannes School of Music, Mr. Grossman has given master classes at prestigious institutions across the United States, including Yale School of Music, The Boston Conservatory, and Penn State University. His teaching philosophy emphasizes versatility, encouraging students to explore the full range of the bass's possibilities across all musical genres.

As a composer, his works include Mood Swings for trombone and double bass, Fantasy on "Shall We Gather at the River?", and Swing Quartet, demonstrating his ability to compose across multiple styles and instrumentations.

The event was made possible thanks to the support of the United States of America Embassy in Hungary.