An image of Mark Dresser

Mark Dresser

Bio

Mark Dresser is an American double bassist and composer renowned for his innovative approach to contemporary jazz, avant-garde, and experimental music. A key figure in New York’s creative music scene, Dresser is known for his virtuosic technique, rich tone, and inventive use of extended techniques on the bass, including preparations, harmonics, and unconventional bowing. He has been a sought-after collaborator, working with a wide range of influential musicians such as Anthony Braxton, John Zorn, and Dave Douglas. Dresser’s own compositions explore intricate structures and deep improvisational freedom, often blending elements of jazz, classical music, and world traditions. As a bandleader, he has released several critically acclaimed albums, showcasing his versatility and ability to push the boundaries of the double bass. In addition to his performance career, Dresser is a respected educator, teaching at the University of California, San Diego, where he influences a new generation of bassists and improvisers.

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