PEOPLE IN THE ARTS:

Late bloomer finds home on bass

Sam Morris

Bassist Paul Firak of the Las Vegas Philharmonic has experienced many sides of the local music scene, including as a performer in Strip shows and as an instructor to student musicians.

By Kristen Peterson (contact)

Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009 | 2 a.m.

The Las Vegas Philharmonic

Name: Paul Firak, musician

Age: 42

Education: Bachelor’s degree in performance, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley

Gigs: Principal contrabassist in the Las Vegas Philharmonic, substitute bassist for various Strip productions, including “Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular”

Getting started: When he was 6 years old his father bought him a guitar with the idea that the two could play together, but playing the instrument was of little interest to Firak, and it gathered dust. He finally picked up the guitar in high school — an electric bass guitar that he used to play rock ’n’ roll in garage bands. He chose bass because it allowed him to slip into the background.

After high school he started playing piano and upright bass. He wanted classical training and decided to become a music major, knowing that, at his age, he had a lot of catching up to do.

“I’m a late bloomer. I practiced four or five hours a day. It’s worked out. I feel fortunate.”

Getting to Las Vegas: After college Firak moved to Texas, where he spent some time in Austin and Dallas, playing in Las Colinas Symphony. He moved back to Colorado and saw that there was a position open in the newly formed Las Vegas Philharmonic.

Then-music director Hal Weller hired him as last chair. Though the Philharmonic is not a full-time orchestra, Firak was so desperate to play that he moved here for the position, working as a waiter in a steakhouse while he made his way into the music community. Four years ago a position opened for assistant principal, then two years ago the position of principal opened. He won the audition.

He’s worked as adjunct professor at UNLV and coaching high school bass players on contract with the Clark County School District.

Working in Las Vegas: In addition to the Las Vegas Philharmonic, Firak dipped into the diverse and broad music opportunities offered in Las Vegas, including performing with an Elvis impersonator. He’s played with production shows “Spamalot,” “Avenue Q,” “Miss Saigon” and “Mamma Mia!” He’s even played in small ensembles for burlesque shows at Forty Deuce at Mandalay Bay, and Tangerine at Treasure Island, at one point serving as the musician who pulls the dancer’s glove off with his teeth. More recently he’s been playing with a Peter, Paul and Mary tribute band.

His highlight, he says, was playing with tenor Andrea Bocelli.

Why bass? “I like the vibrations, the low end. It’s such a beautiful instrument when it’s played well.”

Influences: While growing up in Chicago and Colorado Springs, Firak’s music interests evolved in succession — from John Denver to the Bee Gees to Iron Maiden, Metallica and Led Zeppelin. His influences include classical bassist Edgar Meyer and Geddy Lee of the rock band Rush. Lately he’s been listening to a lot of percussive music and the Bach Cello Suites.

Las Vegas: “I like the West. I like the climate here, even though it’s a little hot for me in the summer. I love Mount Charleston. It’s a great place to go hike.”

Other interests: Music composition, gym, meditation class, yoga. He has an 11-year-old son named Dakota.

Sticking around? “I don’t think I’m going anywhere. I’m going to see where this goes. I’m grateful for what I have here.”

Discussion: 5 comments so far…

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By EveSerene

Dec. 1, 2009

9:31 a.m.

Suggest removal

I have know Paul for over 4 years, and have watched him progress as a professional and teacher. Some of the things not mentioned here are that he is VERY knowledgeable about classical music. Ask him about any piece [almost], hum a few bars, and he'll tell you what it is, when it was written, and by whom.
He has been an example to students by continuing to take lessons of his own, traveling all the way to LA frequently to study with Chris Hanulik of the LA Phil. This shows his humility in knowing the journey is never over, even for him.

I wish him the best of luck in his journey.
~Gayla Coughlin
By kdixon

Dec. 1, 2009

12:50 p.m.

Suggest removal

I am Aunt Kathy to Paul's son Dakota. I've known him since 1998. He is an amazing musician. But, more imporantly, his is a wonderful, moral, righteous father to his son and my nephew Cody.
By lburkholder_firak

Dec. 1, 2009

2:48 p.m.

Suggest removal

Paul is my oldest brother and I could'nt be more proud of him. I remember when he started playing when I was a little girl and he has been so drivin since then.He's come so far and has become a wonderful musician. Way to go Bro!
Your Lil sis,
Lisa
By Georgann

Dec. 1, 2009

8:32 p.m.

Suggest removal

Hi! I am Aunt Georgann to Paul.
Giving God All the Glory for the Blessings of Giving Paul the Gift of Music, the Gift of Mastering Bass.
Beautiful Paul............
By jmfirak

Dec. 2, 2009

1:11 p.m.

Suggest removal

I also remember when Paul first started playing music,and at that time I would have never thought he would have come this far!He's a wonderful musician as well as a brother.I'm so proud of him!

Your Sister,
JoAnn