Andrew French

Andrew French is a professional musician specializing in the string bass. He began his formal education at DePaul University, where he studied under the guidance of Chicago Symphony Orchestra bassist Rob Kassinger. His pursuit of excellence in music led him to the Cleveland Institute of Music, where he completed his master’s degree studying with the esteemed Derek Zadinsky from The Cleveland Orchestra.

He was a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago during their 2021-2022 season and led group lessons through their mentorship program, an experience that enriched his musical journey and broadened his skills as a player and teacher. Currently, Andrew plays with the South Bend Symphony Orchestra and serves as the principal bassist of the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra and the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra. In non-classical ventures, he plays in a jazz trio performing the music of Django Reinhardt, and also plays electric bass in the jazz-inspired indie band Big Fans.