American composer-bassist Armand Russell has created a wealth of music for double bass over the past fifty years and more recently has arranged a tasteful number of works for the instrument. This four movement sonata (Adagio Allegro Largo Presto) by Johann Joachim Quantz (1697-1773) offers a new and accessible transcription for the good intermediate bassist who is confident in low thumb position. Only available in orchestral tuning there are musical and technical challenges in equal measure and much to enjoy for performers and audiences alike. Sonata in G major is also available in two editions for double bass (or cello) trio andstring orchestra. The accompaniment is playable by piano or harpsichord and the limited range of dynamics allows each performer freedom to create their own unique performance and interpretation.
