Previn: Double Strings at the BSO

1st April 2007

"This boy is a miracle of playing."

André Previn first encountered the Slovakian bass virtuoso Roman Patkoló after he won a scholarship from the Anne-Sophie Mutter Foundation, which supports young musicians. He then heard Patkoló perform in recital at the Beethovenhaus in Bonn and, following discussions with Ms. Mutter, decided to write a concerto for them both, commissioned by Mutter's Foundation, and designed specifically to showcase the talents of the younger artist. This month, Previn takes to the Symphony Hall podium on 19 April to lead the Boston Symphony in the world premiere of his new Double Concerto for Violin, Contrabass, and Orchestra, featuring Mutter and Patkoló, and dedicated to both soloists.

With this Double Concerto, Previn has composed a work that not only reflects the amazing capabilities of both artists, but one in which each voice complements the other. Given the small concert repertory for the double bass, Previn's Double Concerto is an immensely important addition that highlights this most distinctive instrument. Subsequent performances follow on the 20th, 21st, and 24th.


Double Concerto for Violin, Contrabass, and Orchestra   20'
Violin, bass; 3(pic).2+ca.2+Ebcl+bcl.2+cbn/4231/timp.2perc/hp/str