With an international career spanning more than three decades, Ercole De Conca is widely recognized for his artistic depth, orchestral leadership, and dedication to pedagogy.

Principal Double Bass of the Orquestra Metropolitana de Lisboa Since 1994, he has played a central role in shaping the sound and artistic identity of one of Portugal's leading orchestras. 
He was previously a member of the Orquestra Sinfónica Portuguesa, consolidating his experience within major symphonic institutions.

His international profile includes collaborations as Guest Principal Double Bass with distinguished ensembles such as the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Aalborg Symphony Orchestra, and the Orquesta Sinfónica de Galicia, performing under renowned conductors in leading European concert halls.

As a soloist, Ercole De Conca has brought the double bass to the forefront with compelling interpretations of major repertoire. His performances include Divertimento Concertante by Nino Rota and the world premiere of the Double Bass Concerto by Emil Tabakov, conducted by the composer himself.

Next season, he will perform the Portuguese premiere of Blackbear in Motion, the Double Bass Concerto by Christian Lindberg, further affirming his commitment to expanding the contemporary repertoire for the instrument.

His artistic voice combines technical authority with expressive nuance, qualities equally present in his chamber music activity and in his solo recording released in 2009.

A devoted chamber musician, he is the founding member of Duo Contrasti (violin and double bass), an ensemble dedicated to exploring the expressive and coloristic possibilities of this rare instrumental combination.

Alongside his performing career, pedagogy has always been central to his artistic mission.
Since 1994 he has been Professor of Double Bass, Chamber Music, and Orchestral Studies at the Academia Nacional Superior de Orquestra, where he has guided generations of young bassists now active in orchestras across Europe.

The Masterclass in Jaén

This masterclass offers an intensive artistic experience for advanced students and young professionals. Through individual lessons and detailed work on solo repertoire and orchestral excerpts, participants will engage with sound production, bow technique, stylistic awareness, and orchestral leadership.

Drawing on decades of experience at the highest orchestral level, Ercole De Conca will share practical insights into audition preparation, section playing, and the development of a distinctive artistic voice.

More than a technical workshop, this masterclass is conceived as a space for musical dialogue, refinement, and inspiration
- an opportunity to explore the expressive potential of the double bass at the highest artistic level.