Get to know our new Tutti Double Bass, Gustavo Quintino

What sparked your journey to begin playing your instrument?

I started playing guitar at the age of 13, and a year later I discovered the bass guitar. My first experience with the double bass came when I was 17 through a social music program at my high school in Brazil. Since I was already playing the bass guitar, choosing the double bass over the other string instruments felt like a natural progression.

From the very beginning, I was inspired by great double bass soloists such as Božo Paradžik and Cătălin Rotaru. At the same time, the music of composers like Beethoven, Brahms, and Mahler deeply influenced my musical development and inspired me to pursue a career in classical music.

What makes the double bass special?

I consider the double bass to be the heart of the orchestra. Without it, I believe music would lose much of its depth and emotion. It is the low frequencies that create the foundation of the sound and, for me, bring the true magic of music. They are what give us goosebumps.

One of the things I love most about the double bass is its incredible versatility. It plays an essential role in such a wide variety of musical styles – from classical music to jazz, from rock to Brazilian music. Few instruments can move so naturally between different musical worlds.

Another fascinating aspect of the double bass is that it continues to evolve. Today we have four- and five-string instruments, low C extensions, several tuning systems, and basses built in different sizes and shapes for different purposes. This constant development makes the double bass a unique instrument, full of possibilities, and one that continues to inspire musicians and instrument makers alike.

What is your favourite piece of classical music, and why?

It’s difficult to choose just one favourite piece of music because I enjoy so many different styles and composers. However, if I had to mention a few, Richard Strauss’s Ein Heldenleben would certainly be at the top of my list. I admire its musical grandeur, the richness of its themes, and the extraordinary way Strauss tells a story through music. To me, it is simply a masterpiece.

I have also always been a great admirer of the piano repertoire, and one of my favourite works is Chopin’s Fantaisie-Impromptu in C-sharp minor. I find it incredibly expressive, combining lyrical beauty with breath-taking virtuosity. Every time I listen to it, I discover something new.

These works remind me of why I fell in love with classical music in the first place – its ability to tell stories, evoke emotions, and communicate something that words alone never could.

Do you enjoy playing any other genres of music besides classical?

I enjoy playing almost every genre of music. At the moment, I perform with two bands in Adelaide: one that plays Brazilian jazz and another that focuses on reggae. Throughout my career, I have also played in rock, metal, jazz, and a wide variety of Brazilian music projects.

Beyond contemporary styles, I have had the opportunity to perform in experimental ensembles and many different forms of chamber music. I believe these experiences have made me a more versatile and open-minded musician.

I may be a little biased, but I have a special love for the music of my home country, Brazil. It is warm, rhythmically rich, and full of energy. It is music that is not only enjoyable to play, but also to listen to and dance to.

Ultimately, I believe that music is universal. While we use genres to describe different styles, I see them simply as different expressions of the same language. Music, in all its forms, is one – and that is what makes it so powerful.

Where can we find you when you’re not practising or performing?

When I’m not playing music, you’ll often find me gardening or cooking – two activities that I genuinely enjoy and that help me unwind. I also love performing in a wide variety of gigs and attending jam sessions. Adelaide has a fantastic music community, and I always enjoy meeting other musicians, sharing ideas, and making music together, getting to know the music scene apart from the classical music.

On my days off, I enjoy walking along the beach or going for a hike. Spending time in nature brings me a sense of peace, helps me recharge, and provides the balance I need between my professional and personal life.

Gustavo’s chair can be supported through our Musical Chairs program. If you would like to get to know him better, and get closer to the music, please contact Head of Development Lucy Eckermann on (08) 8233 6263 or EckermannL@aso.com.au.