Cody Yakimow began playing the double bass because the enormous size and sound of the instrument captivated his eyes and ears. Cody knew that he would commit to a life in music as a sixth grader in Grand Junction, Colorado. After a year in middle-school orchestra, his dream of taking private lessons became a reality. Throughout the seven years of private study with Troy Raper, Principal Double Bassist of the Grand Junction Symphony and public school teacher, Cody gained his technical and musical facility. His work and dedication got him into musical programs such as the Western States Honor Orchestra festival, the Western Slope Chamber Music Series, and the New Artists Philharmonia in Ft.Collins, Colorado. He was principal bassist of the Mesa State Collage Orchestra and the Colorado All-State Symphony Orchestra in Boulder. Cody also performed regularly with the Grand Junction Symphony as a sophomore in High School for two seasons.
In the summer of 2002, Cody had the opportunity to attend the Corzi di Internazzionali summer music program in Urbino, Italy. The program consisted of three weeks of chamber music coachings and performances. Because of his extreme love and dedication for music, Cody was accepted into the Eastman School of music and is now ending his sophomore year under the instruction of Double Bass professor James B. VanDemark. Cody performs regularly with the Eastman School Symphony rotating between principal and assistant principal positions. He spends most of his time reading, studying, practicing and working closely with NeoCollage. Besides doing his school work, Cody really enjoys spending time with his close friends while making new ones. Being a native of Colorado, Cody has always appreciated the sights and sounds of nature; walks outside and yoga keep him inspired to pursue his musical career. Other than that, Cody is just a normal guy.
