Ju-Fang Liu’s Tuscan Bass Packs an Unexpected Punch

By Cliff Hall | From the November/December 2025 issue of Strings

Sometimes, big things come in small packages. For Ju-Fang Liu, principal bassist of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, her instrument embodies this idea perfectly: a rare, Italian double bass crafted in the Tuscan region of Italy around 1720. This bass, with its seemingly modest form, holds a sound that is anything but, resonating with a power and refinement that belies its age and origin.

Indeed, its very size is a testament to an era when the forms and functions of bass instruments were still very much in flux. In early 18th-century Italy, the landscape of lower strings was a vibrant, often confusing, mix of violoni and emerging double basses, which varied not only in dimensions but also in features like the number of strings (anywhere from three to six) or the presence of frets. Smaller patterns like this one were only just beginning to gain traction for virtuosic playing.

The year 1720 placed Tuscany under the rule of Cosimo III de’ Medici, the penultimate grand duke of a dynasty that had long championed the arts and sciences, albeit one whose influence was in its twilight years. While the most famous stringed instrument makers of the era were predominantly associated with the Cremonese and Venetian schools, Tuscany remained a significant hub of craftsmanship and artistic patronage. This instrument’s journey across centuries led it through the hands of notable musicians, including Julie Vinsant of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, and later, Nami Akamatsu, a fellow bassist with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

Now lovingly referred to as the “Nami Bass,” this Italian treasure continues to inspire. Its sound is celebrated for being remarkably versatile, adapting seamlessly to every musical genre, from chamber music to large orchestral works. 

I asked Liu how she acquired her bass and what makes it so special. 

Tell me about your primary instrument.

According to a reputable instrument shop, my primary instrument is a beautiful Italian double bass, built circa 1720 in the Tuscan region of Italy.

What do you know about this instrument’s history?

Aside from its origins in 1720s Italy, I know that the previous owner, Nami Akamatsu, acquired the bass from an elderly woman (Nami’s friend, Julie Vinsant) in Texas while Nami was playing with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. Interestingly, the woman was also a petite female bassist, like Nami.

How did you come to play it?

I was very fortunate to often sit next to Nami while she played with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Every time we performed together, I was struck by the bass’ powerful, beautiful sound. When Nami retired from the ISO, I asked if she would consider selling it to me—and she did. I consider myself a very, very lucky bassist.

What gift does your instrument bring to your playing that can’t be found in any other instrument?

This bass is a rare gem. Though petite in size, its sound is anything but small—it is powerful, beautifully refined, and resonant across the full dynamic range. It’s remarkably versatile and suits every genre of music.

What is your instrument’s personality and temperament like? Does it remind you of anyone or anything?

This bass reminds me of a strong leader. It may appear quiet and unassuming, but it possesses great strength, poise, and adaptability. It handles every musical demand with ease and expression.

Does it perform better in certain situations?

While the bass sounds rich and resonant in all acoustics, it does seem to prefer a slightly drier climate—perhaps something akin to the Tuscan environment in which it was made.

What is its greatest strength?

Its greatest strength is the consistent quality of sound it produces across all registers—rich, clear, and powerful from top to bottom.

What are some of its limitations?

None that I’ve discovered so far.

Beyond its history and the beautiful, dark sounds it produces, are there any other distinctive features or personal stories associated with this bass that make it particularly special to you?

Since acquiring the bass, I’ve played many memorable concerts and recording sessions with it. Recording engineers frequently refer to it as “the amazing bass” because of its incredible tone. I’ve also used it in numerous chamber music performances alongside incredible violinists from the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis. These moments have made the instrument even more special to me.

If given the ability, what would your instrument say to you if you sat down for tea (or your beverage of choice)?

“Cheers! Let’s do this!”