The double bass, the largest and lowest-pitched instrument of the string family, has a rich and evolving history. Its origins date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, when early bass instruments like the violone were used in European music. Unlike the violin family, the double bass developed with influences from both the viol and violin families, which explains its varied shapes and tuning systems. By the 18th century, it became a standard member of the orchestra, providing depth and harmonic foundation. Over time, makers refined its design, increasing its size and improving its sound projection.
This enterprising program presents works for double bass from 20th century Italy, ranging from double bass solo, duos with violin and duos with piano. Composers include Giuseppe Marangoni, Giovanni de Capua, Virgilio Mortari, Lucia Berio and Vito Mercurio.
The guide through this fascinating journey is Antonio Mercurio (double bass), with his musical partners Mihaela Costea (violin) and Alice Baccalini (piano).
Antonio Mercurio held principal double bass positions at the Filarmonica Arturo Toscanini in Parma, the L. Cherubini Orchestra under Riccardo Muti, he is regularly invited as principal by orchestras like the Orchestra Accademia di Santa Cecilia, Balthasar Neumann Orchestra, Teatro San Carlo, and Royal Northern Sinfonia and Filarmonica della Scala.
