Way of the wheel

I am an Winnipeg based composer, arranger, and performing musician on double bass, hurdy gurdy, and jazz Manouche guitar. I am motivated to play music as a catalyst for positive social change.

Quintin Bart is a versatile multi-instrumentalist and composer known for his evocative sound and expressive musicality. Playing the hurdy-gurdy, double bass, and jazz Manouche guitar, Quintin’s performances are infused with a vibrant enthusiasm. Drawing on formal studies in jazz and European folk traditions, he collaborates with diverse Manitoban ensembles including Casati, Raine Hamilton String Trio, Matt Foster, Swing de mes rêves, The Nadeau Ensemble, and the Bart House Band.

Following a degree with honours in jazz double bass performance (University of Manitoba), Quintin relocated to Budapest to learn from and perform with the great Romani troupe, Romano Glaszo. Delving deep into the world of Romani traditions, Quintin returned to the Winnipeg music scene with an inspired ear and a new instrument – the enigmatic and unusual hurdy gurdy.

In 2017, he returned to Europe on a hurdy gurdy pilgrimage, studying with the masters; Matthias Loibner, Tobie Miller, and Nigel Eaton.

Today, the 36-year-old continues to perform across Canada, both as a solo artist and with his many collaborations.

Quintin is currently composing a series of neo-Baroque chamber works for hurdy gurdy, trumpet, violin, cello, and double bass. The quintet sound is seeped in expressive and luscious dreamscapes, blossoming with melodies reminiscent of Slavic folksong and old world fiddle tunes.  

The Wheel speaks of change to come.

As a non-Romani musician inspired by Romani musics, I aim to convey the urgency for wide-ranging positive social change.

When we collectively abandon the mechanisms of racism, discrimination, and exploitation, our entire society benefits.

Support the Canadian Romani Alliance, Romanipe, and Phiren Amenca.

- QB