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About
Bass, Only Bass, Nothing But Bass
Founded in 2015 by Andrew Hassel, Chicago Bass Works specializes in the service and construction of the double bass exclusively. With the knowledge and capacity to perform specialized setups, comprehensive repairs and restorations, as well as making new basses in-house, no job is too big or to small. We particularly enjoy working along side bassists to make sure their instrument sounds and plays the best it can.
Schedule Appointment
I am available by appointment only, so please reach out and schedule a time to get your bass on the bench.
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Testimonials
“I’ve been going to Chicago Bass Works for the past three years and have always been thrilled by the quality and timeliness of the work. Andrew always does a terrific job, explains and shows everything that he’s doing, and explains the science behind any problems I’ve come with in a very understandable way—all while keeping his prices very affordable. I’ve always left here feeling confident in the work Andrew has done. Highly recommended!”
“I’ve been going to Andrew for years, he’s done so much great work on my bass, from repairing seam openings, to planing my fingerboard, and even constructing a brand new extension machine which has functioned beautifully. There’s no better place to take your bass in Chicagoland!”
“Andrew has done all of the work on both my basses for the last 5 years or so. He’s experienced, knowledgeable, and just one of the friendliest people. My bass always comes back to me sounding its best.”
“Andrew’s work is of the highest quality and I know my bass is in good hands with him. Scheduling a time to bring my bass in is always easy, and he does fantastic repairs.”
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What We do
Anything that your double bass may need, an open seam, crack repair, setup work, or extensive restoration we can take care of. We can work on anyone’s bass, whether beginner or professional, and help them achieve their instrument’s best with detail oriented craftsmanship, real world experience, and innovative new solutions.
SEE MY HANDY WORK
About Us
For Bass players, by bass players
Chicago Bass Works was founded in 2015 by Andrew Hassel to focus exclusively on the setup, repair, and construction of the double bass. Andrew has worked as a bassist, music educator, instrument salesperson, and luthier; giving him a broad perspective on the needs of modern bassists. Learning instrument making under the prolific William Whedbee and practicing repair in one of the biggest school rental companies in the mid-west has given him a comprehensive understanding of how to make any bass sound and perform its best.
Currently at the shop in Matteson, IL we are doing setup work, restorations, and new instrument making. We don’t carry any supplies or basses for sale (other than the ones made in house!) but can offer some recommendations for other local shops that might be able to help.
Handmade Double Basses
PREVIOUSLY SOLD
Chicago Bass Works, Model G #10
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2024
Two-piece top of Norway Spruce
Back of Hickory and Mahogany
Ribs of matching Hickory
Neck of Maple
7/8 scale, 41” string length
Chicago Bass Works, Model G #8
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2021
Two-piece top of Norway Spruce
Ribs and back of figured Maple
Neck of figured Maple
7/8 scale, 41.5” string length
Chicago Bass Works, Model G #9
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2022
Two-piece top of Norway Spruce
Ribs and back of figured Maple
Neck of figured Maple
7/8 scale, 41.5” string length
Chicago Bass Works, Model G #7
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2020
Two-piece top of Norway Spruce
Ribs and back of figured Maple
Neck of figured Maple
7/8 scale, 41.5” string length
Chicago Bass Works, Model G #5
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2020
Two-piece top of Norway Spruce
Ribs and back of figured Maple
Neck of plain Maple
Collaboration Bass “Houston/Chicago”
Andrew Hassel & Joey Naeger, Chicago & Houston 2019
Two-piece top of Norway Spruce
Ribs and back of figured Maple
Neck of plain Maple
Chicago Bass Works, Model G #4
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2019
Two-piece top of Norway Spruce
Ribs and back of figured Maple
Neck of figured Maple
Chicago Bass Works, Model G #3
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2018
Two-piece top of Norway Spruce
Ribs and back of figured Maple
Neck of figured Maple
Chicago Bass Works Model G #2
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2017
Two Piece top of Englemann Spruce
Ribs and Back of figured Maple
Neck of Maple
3/4 Gamba model bass
Andrew Hassel, Chicago 2016
Three-piece top of Sitka Spruce
Ribs and Back of Walnut
Neck of Big Leaf Maple
40.5" String Length