Rachel Martin, 25, joined the Lexington Philharmonic as Principal Bass in late 2023. She also frequently performs with the Baltimore Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Nashville Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Seattle Symphony, and the St. Louis Symphony.

Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Rachel began playing double bass at age 8 and studied privately with Pittsburgh Symphony members Peter Guild and Betsy Heston. Since then, she has earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, studying with Timothy Pitts.

Rachel has spent her summers performing around the world, including Europe, Central America, and East Asia. She has also attended national music programs, including Spoleto Festival Orchestra, Music Academy of the West, and Aspen Music Festival.

In her free time, Rachel is passionate about expanding literature for double bass. She loves composing and performing arrangements for double bass ensembles, finding joy in collaborating with friends.

Photo Credit: Janet Fink