Gary Karr: Life on the G String

by Mary Rannie

Gary Life on the G String chronicles the extraordinary international career of a double-bass soloist. Launched in 1962 by Leonard Bernstein, in a Young People's Concert at Carnegie Hall viewed on television by seven million people, Karr quickly gained legendary status for his virtuosity and inimitable lyricism, his infectious sense of humour, and the pioneering spirit that led him to found, in 1967, the International Society of Bassists, and he continues to perform and record at age seventy-five. In this account of Karr's professional and personal development, his own words punctuate the narrative and engage the reader in a lively, revealing conversation. Emotional, surprising, and entertaining, his story will appeal not only to his many fans and fellow-bassists, but to all musicians, music-lovers, and biography enthusiasts.

324 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2017

Reviews

[Lisa Vogl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a delight. I was lucky enough to study with Gary Karr at one of his Karr Kamps in 2006. When I was there, I met the author of this book, who I believe had just started writing it at that time.

I am so glad she wrote it. After learning of Karr’s death, this book was a great way to appreciate again and understand more his legendary musicianship.

[Vincent Osborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gary Karr is one of the most famous double bass players in the history of instrument. His biography, so well done by Mary Rannie (including numerous comments from Gary), should be required reading of all bass players and basically every music lover. Gary’s challenges of traveling around the world with his double bass make for a very interesting and sometimes humorous read. His love of music and overwhelming desire to share that love with as many people as possible exemplify the true ideal of a musician’s life.