Contrabass

Contrabass, also known as double bass or upright bass, refers to both an instrument and a genre wherein this deepest-pitched string instrument in the orchestra plays a central role. As a genre, contrabass music is characterized by deep, resonant tones that are key to its expressive breadth—from pizzicato jazz lines to the smooth bowing of classical passages. In the hands of virtuosos like Olivier Thiery and Stefano Scodanibbio, the contrabass transcends its traditional background role, showcasing its versatility across a range of musical styles. Artists such as Joel Quarrington and Niek De Groot paint acoustic canvases with a rich palette of timbres and techniques, exploring the instrument's capabilities through solo performances, chamber ensemble pieces, and concerto appearances with orchestras.

Chamber Works by Ernest Kanitz

ARC Ensemble•

Joel Quarrington

Album - 16 Tracks - Released October 31, 2025