Baroque Transcriptions

Baroque Transcriptions consists of three well-known baroque melodies, arranged and recorded by the Czech virtuoso and teacher, Frantisek Posta (1919-1991), who was Principal Bass of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra for over 40 years. Professor Posta performed these arrangements throughout his career and was known for his beautiful sound, perfect intonation and supreme musicality.

Audience friendly, all three demonstrate the lyrical and sonorous possibilities of the solo double bass. The accompaniments are simple and effective and the edition includes accompaniments for both solo and orchestral tunings.

Bach's 'Air on a G string' has been arranged for almost every instrument and instrumental combination and this tasteful and effective transcription offers a range of musical and technical challenges and the opportunity to demonstrate the cantabile qualities of the double bass.

Handel's Largo needs no introduction and is a beautiful and lyrical solo line set against a simple chordal accompaniment. The opening aria in Handel's opera 'Xerxes', the singing and cantabile qualities of the solo double bass are demonstrated throughout.

Nina (Tre Giorni) by Pergolesi has a beautiful melody against a simple rocking accompaniment. Also operatic in character, there are many opportunities for the bassist to demonstrate more than simply a technical command of the instrument.

Recorded by Frantisek Posta, they offer effective lyrical solos which would be suitable for any concert or occasion.

Newly typset in 2011, these wonderfully evocative and accessible pieces would be suitable for any concert or occasion. Enjoy!

Performance Level: 8; Advanced.

Contents

Air from Suite No. 3

Largo from Xerxes

Aria (Tre Giorni)