Europe’s most distinctive bass guitar festival, Estonian Bass Oasis 2025, will take place from August 26–30 in the cozy and welcoming town of Võru. Now in its fourth year, the festival brings together top musicians from Estonia and around the world under the artistic direction of American bass legend Stuart Hamm for a five-day music camp featuring solo performances, evening concerts, and jam sessions.
This year’s festival focuses on solo bass guitar and will feature some of the genre’s heavyweights — Charles Berthoud and Michael Manring.
One of the most followed musicians on YouTube, British bass prodigy Charles Berthoud, has captivated millions with his innovative bass technique. “His compositions can be astonishingly fast, almost flamenco-like, and shift to the calm beauty of piano sonatas,” says Heiki Kelp, one of the main organizers of the Bass Oasis and director of the Võru Kannel Foundation.
American legend Michael Manring has enriched the music world for decades as a unique bass virtuoso, innovating both the instrument and its playing techniques while boldly expanding its boundaries. His style has charmed audiences with its emotional depth and melodicism.
Also sharing his skills and knowledge is the heart of the festival — Stuart Hamm (USA), one of the world’s most legendary bass educators, ensemble musicians, and solo artists known for his distinctive playing styles. For Stuart, it’s important that every participant learns something new according to their abilities. “My goal is to inspire, provide ideas and confidence, so that bassists are motivated to grow and become even better,” says the American bass legend.
Among the Estonian musicians, Henno Kelp will be teaching at the festival — a bassist known for his development and diversity. Henno is an excellent team player who has worked with many renowned bands, including the rock group Terminaator, Dagö, and the ethno-jazz fusion band Keelepeksjad. Guitar accompaniment will be arranged by one of Estonia’s most versatile musicians, jazz professor Jaak Sooäär from the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre. On drums, Italy’s rising star Roberto Porta will join the festival. The list of ensemble musicians will be updated continuously.
The five-day bass camp welcomes bassists of all skill levels — the key is a passion for music, a desire to learn from the masters, and to play together with world-class musicians in a dream festival band. In addition to masterclasses and bass instruction, multiple concerts for the wider public will take place around Võru. Everyone interested in music is welcome to attend and enjoy. The Estonian Bass Oasis will culminate on August 30 with a Grand Gala Concert, featuring performances by world-famous musicians and students from the masterclasses.
More information, tickets for concerts and masterclasses, and festival passes are available athttps://www.bassoasis.com/ and https://vorukannel.ee/.
Organizers: Võru Kannel Foundation, Akantus Music, and Stuart Hamm
Main supporters: City of Võru, Estonian Cultural Endowment, Mark Bass and Georgi Hotel
Prepared by and additional information:
Heiki Kelp
Organizer of Estonian Bass Oasis
Võru Kannel Foundation
Tel: +372 513 9153
Email: heiki.kelp@vorukannel.ee
By: Bass Magazine