So, I have this Stambaugh Single-cut fretless (see sig) that I was trying to sell here a few weeks ago. I had a few nibbles, but no sale... and since, haven't had any time to do anything with it, like put it on ebay as planned. Then, I had an idea. Now, I'm quite grateful and fortunate in that I don't *really* need the money at the moment. With the economy seemingly headed South and many people struggling to make ends meet, I decided that maybe I should give the bass to someone less fortunate and in some way deserving. So, here it is. I'm trying to flesh out the details and I'm looking for input (no sob stories yet, please ) on making this happen. Thinking that a short (3 or 4 paragraphs at the most) essay type submissions would be the way to go... submitted to me via PM. Only complication there is that my mailbox on here will prob fill up pretty quick. So... I also need to figure out a way to narrow down the applicants. If I don't provide some type of guidelines, I'll probably have everyone and their brother sending me stuff, and probably wouldn't even have the time to go through the submissions. Perhaps students only? Probably some additional points beyond that. Any input? Was originally thinking of having other TB'ers vote on the most deserving, but then figured it might not be cool or people would shy away from/not be comfortable with airing their stuff publicly. So, it'll likely be private with myself, and maybe my wife as the sole judges. Thoughts on this? Now, I generally have a pretty decent BS meter, but I'd obviously need some way to confirm or corroborate any stories... references maybe? I do know that one thing I'd want the person to promise is that they will NEVER sell the bass. If the time comes where they somehow decide that they no longer want it they can only give it to someone else that they feel is deserving of it... and ask the same of that person, and so on. Obviously, I can't make this happen, or hold anyone to it, but I'd like to think that a person would at least feel horribly guilty going back on their word. Maybe giving the bass in somebody's (no longer with us) name would increase the guilt factor some. I may even decide to do this every year... we'll see. Please don't post or PM me yet... the phones are not currently open. I will announce the official start and deadline date soon if I really decide to go through with this (ie. don't encounter any complications). Again... this is just a fact finding mission at this point... please do not PM me about this yet!!! Stay tuned! --- c
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?p=5847317 check out this thread to see how it's done. Good luck.
I know I for one would love a free bass (who wouldn't), but I don't think I'm in any sort of need for one, so I'll exclude myself right off the bat. I do however think this is a really cool idea, and really generous, if you decide to go through with it. Just wanted to throw a word of encouragement your way!
Wow! what an awesom idea! I'm pretty well off and dont really need this, but wow! such generosity just trying to help out your fellow man/bassist.!! *but a free AI and Raezers Edge rig and I'd write you the most beautiful story in the world*
ugh, i've got a story for you. it has nothing to do with bass playing, but it's a sad one nonetheless xD canadaman not doing so good right now. haha. stayin' tuned.
I would disqualify myself as well, I have no needs, but to a young student who's in a finacial pickle, what a great gift.
This sounds like a great idea and I'd love to see someone in need receive such a bass that will open up a world of new environment to play in. It's a very beautiful instrument and thing to do. Subscribed.
You could lighten the load on yourself and still find a deserving candidate by contacting some of the music schools in the area (either high school or college programs) and donate the bass to them as a school bass (it would be easier to enforce/encourage the 'don't sell' policy) or ask some of the teachers to nominate worthy students.
You could also host a youtube video comp to see who could play a certain song the best or something and also that way you can judge on their bass situation, meaning if they are holding a fodera, they don't need a Stammie? Although this would disallow anyone without cam access to participate.
I am sure someone would be prepared to offer you a few hundreds for that axxe if you really want to get rid of it, I sure would, if I wanted it, but I think it's ugly so I wont.. D.Don
Cool idea. I also am not qualified for something of this nature, but like others have said, for a young student or for someone who is down on their luck, this could be an extremely wonderful and helpful gift.
I just did the same thing sorta.. And mine pending his parents approval will be going to a younger bassist, with 2 fair basses, not alot of income, etc.. Trust your instincts and your heart and someone will get a wonderful bass, and knowing you made someones day is worth it.. I know Adam(Snufflewagon) is going to have a hard time sleeping tonight. Brett
Why not try to check with some of the bassists in Iowa, Missouri, etc. to see if they know of any fellow musicians who lost their bass in the horrible recent flooding? Kind of like some folks tried to help the musicians in New Orleans who lost everything in Katrina. Maybe some of you TB'ers in those areas could give him some tips if you know anybody in that situation.
Well, this seems to be quite the trend around here on TB lately. Yeah, I thought about going that way, but I feel that this is such a great community we have here on TB, and I've gained so much from it over the years, that it's kind of like my way of giving back... TB style. --- c
This is a very, very gracious thing you are doing! If you go to my recent introduction on this forum I have sort of the same story how my new bass came about. Believe me when I say I'm grateful! I like the idea of the flood victims also to a music school in need! Also please consider someone currently serving in the Armed Forces. There's a lot of young people really just scraping to get by! Thanks for doing this!