Richard Cassarino

San Diego native, Richard Cassarino, began playing the double bass at the age of 14. His first teacher was Margaret Johnston of the San Diego Symphony, who he studied with throughout high school. Richard later studied with Neil Garber at UC Santa Barbara, Nico Abondolo and Timothy Eckert at Azusa Pacific University, Bruce Bransby at Indiana University, and privately with Jeffery Turner. Richard attended the Aspen Music Festival, the Music Academy of the West, and the Pacific Music Festival.

Before joining Pacific Symphony, Richard served for twelve years as the Assistant Principal Double Bass of the Alabama Symphony. During his time in Alabama Richard taught at Samford University and the Alabama School of Fine Arts. Richard also spearheaded "Inspire," a volunteer outreach initiative which has brought music to thousands of students in classrooms throughout Alabama.