Iconic electric bass soloist shares studying advanced intonation, upcoming teaching and recording engagements
Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman
April 7, 2025
Michael Manring is one of the bass world’s iconic soloists, revered for his fretless bass work and reputation for exploring unconventional tunings and extended techniques. After growing up in northern Virginia and studying briefly at the Berklee College of Music, Michael went on to study and tour with the late great Jaco Pastorius in the early 1980s. Since then, he has led an accomplished career performing all over the world and receiving countless accolades, including being named Bass Player magazine’s 1994 Bassist of the Year, and garnering over 1.5 million views on a YouTube video performing his own composition, “Selene.” Michael has released numerous albums as a leader and soloist, most recently 2020’s Small Moments and 2022’s Grains of Sand with Alberto Rigoni (featuring Billy Sheehan, Lars Lehmann, and Stuart Hamm). These days, Michael maintains an active performing career and recording schedule.
Watch our interview with Michael!
Really enjoyed the latest Michael Manring interview. I don’t often get to listen to many, as time and energy are in short supply, but it was great to get Michael’s take on a variety of things. One in particular, for me, is – how many strings are optimal/necessary. I also found the discussion on Even Temperament and Just Temperament interesting.
While it may be tempting to branch out into more strings and “wild” techniques, I have to stick with one instrument and work on basics for a long time and not get distracted.
I’ve had some 6-strings and fretlesses over the years — traded them back. I do have some fours and a fiver. I think that’s where I stay. It’s the time and energy thing.
Thanks for doing these interviews even though I don’t catch every one! (I know they’re here, though, whenever I am able.)
Thanks for the feedback, Robert. Funny, the bass has come a long way in the last 70 years, but there’s still something to be said about keeping certain things “old school.” Glad you liked the interview!