About Drew

Drew Phelps

A native Texan, Drew was initiated into the world of music at an early age when his father brought home instruments for him and his twin brother. "I got a bass guitar and David got a guitar" he recalls (brother David is currently a successful jazz guitarist in NYC). In junior high, Drew played tuba with the school band then in high school he discovered rock & roll and blues music which pretty much put an abrupt end to his tuba playing days. After graduating from high school, Drew enrolled in the nationally recognized music program at North Texas State University where he became enamored with the string bass. In addition to earning a Bachelor of Music degree from North Texas State University, he received a full scholarship to attend the School of Fine Arts at the Banff Centre in Canada, as well as a National Endowment for the Arts jazz fellowship to study privately with legendary string bassist Dave Holland.

Drew is known as a versatile musician who is at home whether he is playing jazz and swing standards, western swing, country or old-time music. Drew has performed and recorded with an impressive list of musicians that include the Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Dixie Chicks, Mary Wilson, Sarah Hickman, Bernadette Peters, Jack Ingram, James Clay and Bob Hope (yes, Bob Hope!).

In addition to performing and recording, Drew is in demand as a music instructor, teaching upright bass and music theory. In his spare time, Drew enjoys spending time with his wife Esther and their two boys, who are also accomplished musicians.

Drew is a welcome addition to the QSB and his tasty bass playing helps shape the sound of the group and keep things swinging! Click here to watch the "Welcome to the band, Drew" video.