Lucas LaFave

Lucas LaFave, born and raised in the heartlands of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, is one Michigan's most in demand double bassists. Starting at the age of 10 years old, Lucas began his playing career in the world of school orchestra classes before quickly finding his place among his jazz peers. Lucas' adolescence saw him performing with some of the U.P.'s finest folk and jazz musicians, including; Dylan Trost, Patrick Booth, Kerry Yost, Alexis Mahler, Nick Adams and the Aral Sea Divers, Dave Ziegner, Travis Swanson, and Troy Graham.

After making the decision to dedicate himself to the pursuit of excellence on the double bass, Lucas relocated from Marquette, MI to East Lansing to study under the guidance of Rodney Whitaker at Michigan State University. Here, Lucas secured a Bachelor (2020) and Master of Music (2022), all while traveling the midwest with MSU's top jazz ensembles. Professionally, Lucas has worked with a wide range of artists, including; Michael Dease, Bill Cunliffe, Moira Smiley, Paquito D'Rivera,  Trunino Lowe,  Michael Reed, Jack Branfield, Russ Macklem, and many others. Today, Lucas finds himself performing alongside musicians like; Randy Napoleon,  Luke Sittard, Olivia Van Goor, Gene Dunlap, and Charles and Gwen Scales.

Not only a performer, Lucas has worked extensively in education and outreach with young musicians, primarily in the orchestral programs of many of the U.P.'s middle and highschools. Lucas has also spent many summers as a camp lesson and workshop instructor at the Superior String Alliance's summer camp.

Lucas' focus is on musicianship, attitude, and respect and understanding of the history of the double bass and its great performers. He believes in making music a fun and accessible creative pursuit for any person of any age, and has an adaptable teaching style which makes him an excellent mentor for any bassist, novice, advanced, or professional. 

Truly living by the words "have bass, will travel" Lucas' work on the double bass has allowed him to perform in regions ranging from the deep woods of the Huron Mountains to the bustling city streets of Columbus Circle in NYC. His musical interests are wide ranging as are his influences, and he is eager to share his love for the bass, and for music as a whole, with students.