Oswald Prentiss Backus V is an accomplished Double Bassist and multi-instrumentalist celebrated for his captivating performances and wide-ranging collaborations. As a passionate music educator, he teaches strings, piano, guitar, woodwinds, voice, and brass in Nashville and offers virtual lessons to students nationwide.

Oswald earned his BA in Classical Bass Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music and completed the Double Bass Performance Program at the Boston University Tanglewood Institute. He further enriched his musical expertise with an MA in Music from the University of Kansas.

Throughout his career, Oswald has performed alongside renowned artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Victor Wooten, and members of the Virginia Symphony, Boston Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Diego Symphony, among many more. His artistry has been featured on prestigious recordings, including Gil Shaham’s recording of Dvořák’s Violin Concerto, and he has held principal and ensemble roles in the New Mexico Philharmonic, Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Wichita Grand Opera, and others. Highlights include performing with the KU Jazz Choir and collaborating with Grammy, Tony, and Emmy winner Audra McDonald with the Sioux City Symphony.

As a dedicated educator, Oswald teaches students of all ages. He emphasizes a holistic approach grounded in solid technique and music-literacy skills while making learning engaging and enjoyable. His passion for music education drives him to inspire every student, tailoring lessons to their goals, incorporating familiar repertoire, and using positive reinforcement to foster confidence and growth.

With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Oswald continues to make a profound impact on the world of music—inspiring audiences through performance and nurturing the next generation of musicians.