Fabián Galeana

Born: I was born in Mexico and raised in a little town called Ixtapaluca.

Studied: I did my undergrad in Mexico City at the Ollin Yoliztli Music School. After that, I came to London to do my Master's degree at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama.

Joined: 2026

Favourite piece of music: It's hard to choose one, but I would say Brahms's Symphony No.2; it has a special place in my heart as it was one of the first symphonies I ever played.

First ballet you saw: The first ballet I ever saw was Coppélia. I was astonished by how strong and graceful the dancers had to be at the same time.

First album: The first full album I ever listened to was Californication by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, when I was  eight years old. Back then, I was pretty convinced I did not like music. Turns out I was wrong.

Why did you choose your instrument? My father is a double bass player – he chose the double bass for me.

What do you love about playing your instrument? The richness and depth of the low notes, and I love the role my instrument plays in providing the foundation that drives and supports the orchestra.

Favourite ballet to play:Cinderella and Romeo and Juliet, both by Prokofiev. It is so fascinating how well Prokofiev understood the double bass as an instrument, his bass lines are incredibly varied in colour and texture.

Most challenging piece you've played: I think Beethoven’s 9th Symphony is one of the most challenging works in the double bass repertory. Although I have performed it several times, I still prepare and rehearse it thoroughly for every performance. It requires not only a highly developed technique, but also a strong musical understanding and significant orchestral experience to perform it successfully.

Alternative career: I would want to study languages or game design.

Most challenging non-musical thing you have done? Being able to do a pistol squat and a handstand (each took me six months to achieve).

Places that inspire you: Somewhere you can see the stars, like the Mexican countryside.

Is there anyone outside of the music world that inspires you and why? My mum. She is such a strong person, and I have always admired how resilient she is.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Spending time with my friends and family. I also enjoy doing calisthenics, reading, learning languages and playing video games.

Interesting fact about you: My favourite films are Interstellar and Project Hail Mary.