Gran Duo Concertante
by Giovanni Bottesini
The Gran Duo Concertante for violin, double bass, and orchestra is the showpiece of Bottesini's concertante output, demanding equal virtuosity from both soloists. The double bass is required to play in the upper positions with singing lyrical tone, its natural resonance offset against the brilliance of the violin. Bottesini, known as 'the Paganini of the double bass', designed the work to astound audiences with the contrast between the instrument's stereotyped bass role and its true lyrical capability.
Editions
Yorke Edition
Thomas Martin, 1990
Standard modern edition with piano reduction, bowing and fingering suggestions for both instruments. Widely used for auditions and recitals.
Recital Music
Chi-chi Nwanoku, 2005
Revised performing edition prepared by Chi-chi Nwanoku, with updated bowings reflecting modern double bass technique.