SCHROEDER ARTISTS
WANDA ORTIZ
Based in Southern California, Wanda Ortiz is active as an electric bassist and contrabassist. Her primary outlet for electric playing is the highly successful tribute band The Iron Maidens, who tour worldwide. She is also the long-standing principal contrabassist for South Coast Symphony with whom she serves on the board of directors.
Wanda was first drawn to the instrument at age nine. She was late to music class on the day students were selecting instruments, and everything was checked out except for a contrabass. At age eleven, when her school jazz ensemble was in need of an electric bassist, she took up that instrument as well. Although self-taught on the electric bass, Ms. Ortiz has studied with a number of contrabassists and participated in master classes with some of the world’s leading performers. Her interest in the instrument led her to complete a BMus degree at the University of California at Irvine. She subsequently completed an MBA degree at Pepperdine University and, in addition to her busy musical life, has a successful career in technology. She is currently on the advisory board of the International Society of Bassists, an organization for those who teach, study, play, repair, build and enjoy the bass.
DAVID SUTKIN
BASS UPFRONT
David Sutkin is a seasoned bassist and social media influencer with over 40 years of experience in playing, recording, and performing. His playing style, influenced by legends like Chris Squire and Geddy Lee, has made him a respected figure in the bass community.
As a member of "Apollos Ghost," David has contributed to four albums available on major streaming platforms, showcasing his ability to blend seamlessly into the band's sound while keeping the bass prominent.
He also founded "Bass Upfront," a Facebook group with over 20,000 members, reflecting his belief in the bass guitar as the foundation of music. David values both melodic lead players and those who provide simple, driving lines, emphasizing that there are no strict rules in bass playing.
A passionate gear collector, David owns a range of vintage and modern basses, amps, and pedals. He plans to expand his influence further with a "Bass Upfront" YouTube channel and global projects, continuously inspiring the bass guitar community.
David is proud to be an endorsed artist for Schroeder bass cabinets, having been impressed by their sound since first discovering them at a NAMM expo. He currently has over a dozen custom-built Schroeder cabinets in his studio, with his personalized "Lion head" 412 cab being his top choice for gigs.
LOREN SCOTT
Loren Scott grew up in a musically rich environment in Pasco, Washington, influenced by his father, a professional musician, and his mother, a piano teacher. He began playing bass guitar at 12 and later expanded his skills to include guitar, backup vocals, and songwriting, focusing on original music.
His career spans various genres, including Punk Rock, Southern Rock, Blues, and Thrash Metal, playing with bands like Dominion Fiend, Hexmen, and Purefire. Loren has also supported national acts such as Machine Head and Death Angel.
Since 1993, Loren has been a key member of the thrash metal band Unprovoked, which recently released a full-length album and tours twice a year. He actively seeks collaboration with talented musicians and is currently writing new material.
With over 40 years of experience, Loren remains passionate about music, continually pushing boundaries and exploring new opportunities in the industry.
DON MERRICK
Based in Eastern Tennessee, I have been a dedicated bass guitarist since 1976, accumulating over four decades of experience in the music industry. My journey began on the Jersey Shore circuit, where I honed my craft primarily in hard rock and metal genres.
Throughout my career, I have performed with numerous bands, allowing me to refine my skills and develop a distinctive sound that resonates with audiences. I primarily play Valenti, Sandberg, and Spector basses, which have become my go-to instruments for live performances, known for their exceptional tone and playability.
While my roots lie in hard rock and metal, I also embrace the opportunity to showcase my versatility as a musician by participating in various pop cover bands. This adaptability has enriched my musical repertoire and allowed me to connect with a broader audience.
As I continue to evolve as an artist, I remain passionate about exploring new musical avenues and collaborating with fellow musicians. My commitment to the craft and love for bass guitar drives me to push boundaries and create memorable musical experiences.
GREG CRISS
BASSIST FOR ARTISTREE
Proud user and endorser of Schroeder Cabinets.
Greg resides in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and has been playing bass for over 50 years.
He is currently working with Artistree, a high-energy funk/soul group. Follow Artistree-Live on Facebook.
Gerg has played all styles from Country to Progressive Rock and has worked with some amazing musicians.
The list includes, Mike Fowler, Bobby Nicholas, Al Martino, Rick & Randy Purcell, Capital Jam, S’Wearing Hats, Lynchburg Hollow and many, many others that include the like of artists, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Tony Williams, and Carter Beauford. He’s done lots of studio work where he’s worked as an Artist and Producer.
Wherever he is working, he’s known to be providing the bottom and the drive for the production, dancefloor, and electricity of the group.