Bottesini was a recognized composer of operas, including Cristoforo Colombo, Ero e Leandro, and Ali Babà, which were well-received during his lifetime.
Performer Biography
Thomas Martin, the double bassist on this recording, has held leading positions with several orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, and is also known as a luthier, having made over 140 basses.
Instruments
The double bass Bottesini purchased after leaving the Conservatory was a 3/4 size Italian instrument made in 1716 by Carlo Antonio Testore, tuned higher than usual.
Composer Biography
Bottesini initially chose the double bass at age thirteen for a scholarship at the Milan Conservatory, mainly due to his prior knowledge of stringed instruments.
Composition History
Bottesini's Fantasia 'La Sonnambula' brought him early fame and fortune, and he performed it with great success throughout his life.
Composer Biography
Bottesini's friendship with Verdi led to him conducting the first performance of Aida in Cairo and being recommended for Director of the Conservatory in Parma.
Composer Biography
Giovanni Bottesini, known as 'the Paganini of the double bass', was born into a family of talented musicians in Crema, Northern Italy.
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