Bass

The Philadelphia-based musician didn't begin playing his instrument until he was 22, after serving in the Air Force as a fighter pilot. He describes his first 10 years performing with jazz legends as his version of going to school.

In addition to being an in-demand bass player, Milt Hinton is an accomplished photographer. His portraits offer a candid look into the lives of famous jazz musicians. He and Fresh Air host Terry Gross talk about the experience of black musicians touring the segregated South and listen to highlights from Hinton's recording career.

The musician taught himself the instrument before taking lessons at the Philadelphia Conservatory. After a brief stint as a rock and roll bassist, he joined drummer Art Blakey's ensemble.

The accomplished musician is known for singing along with his playing. He demonstrates his unique approach to the instrument, considers the evolving role of the bass in music, and his career in jazz.

David Izenzon is classically-trained bass player who performs with free jazz pioneer Ornette Coleman. Later in life he became a psychotherapist, and now works to educate people about the dangers of marijuana abuse.

Bassist David Izenzon earned a doctorate later in life and became a practicing psychotherapist. He discusses his jazz career and how he began to help musicians reduce their use of marijuana.