Dr. Douglas Ferreira has been studying the art of music and the double bass for nearly two decades, appearing in orchestras in two countries and studying under some of the best bassists in the industry.

A native of Brazil, Dr. Ferreira earned his Bachelor of Music in Bass Performance at São Paulo State University in 2004. Soon after, he moved to the United States to continue his studies, earning his Artist Diploma in 2007 as well as the Master of Music in Bass Performance in 2009 at Lynn University Conservatory of Music. Upon earning his master degree, Dr. Ferreira started his studies at Michigan State University, where he ultimately earned his Doctorate of Musical Arts in Bass Performance in 2014.

It was while completing his DMA that Dr. Ferreira moved back to Florida and discovered his passion for teaching orchestra in Palm Beach County. Dr. Ferreira has focused on equitability, ensuring that all students are able to play in the orchestra. His orchestra classes have also created a safe space for ESOL students to thrive, encouraging them to express themselves through music before they have even mastered English. Dr. Ferreira, who himself discovered music later in life, often shares with his students that it’s never too late to start playing an instrument and that music can have a profound and positive impact on one’s life beyond the classroom.

Dr. Ferreira has taught at Lynn University Preparatory Music School, Michigan State University and Kalamazoo College. He has performed widely with orchestras in Brazil and the United States, including The Florida Grand Opera, The Palm Beach Symphony, Palm Beach Opera, Naples Opera, Symphony of the Americas, Miami City Ballet, to name a few.

His work has garnered professional accolades. In 2004, Dr. Ferreira was a winner in the Orquestra Experimental de Repertório Competition. He has also appeared as a soloist with the Karkoarko Chamber Orchestra and the São Paulo State University Orchestra.

He has studied with such accomplished bassists as Jack Budrow, Rodney Whitaker, Dr. Valerie Albright, Shigeru Ishikawa and Dr. Mark Morton. He also had the privilege of studying under Timothy Cobb, principal bass of the New York Philharmonic.

Currently, Dr. Ferreira performs with the Miami City Ballet, and is an Orchestra Teacher to Palm Beach County.