Concerto for Contrabass [parts]

Composed in 2021 at the request of the distinguished double bassist Philippe Cormann, to whom it is dedicated, the Concerto for Contrabass is cast in three movements and showcases both the lyrical and virtuosic potential of the instrument.

The first movement begins with the orchestra establishing a rhythmic ostinato, over which the soloist introduces Theme A. This material undergoes various modulations before being taken up by the orchestra, leading to a more tranquil central section in which the double bass presents a lyrical Theme B. A virtuosic cadenza for the soloist follows, after which Theme A returns in varied form to conclude the movement.

The second movement is in ABA′ form. Section A contrasts a rhythmic orchestral call with a simple, expressive melody played by the soloist. In section B, the orchestra introduces a poignant motif, and the double bass unfolds a long, nostalgic theme over sustained chords. Section A′ returns to the opening material, but ends with a brief reprise of the expressive motif from B, this time played by the orchestra.

The third movement is highly virtuosic, built on a continuous sixteenth-note ostinato introduced by the soloist and then taken up by various orchestral sections. Over this energetic framework, short, clearly defined motifs are introduced and developed in canon, leading to a rich and exuberant conclusion.

The world premiere took place on 16 October 2022 at the Lasne Music Festival (Belgium), performed by Philippe Cormann and the Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie under the direction of Ektoras Tartanis.