Double Bass Dimensions

“The Swan is, of course, probably one of the most famous melodies of all time! Ironically, the double bass variation from Camille Saint-Saëns Carnival of the Animals, is the elephant. It’s wonderful, gruff, and full of heaviness. The Swan, which is the cello variation, is light, elegant, soaring, and transcendent. It just felt soothing to play and I wanted to share its richness with our audience.”—Andy Butler, Principal Bassist

“Episode Two is full of fun facts about the double bass, and features Bach’s amazing Air on the G String, from the third orchestral suite. This piece is often requested for both weddings and funerals, and I’ve performed it in both types of events. It has a rich optimistic flavor, which has really been a necessity during the pandemic.”—Andy Butler, Principal Bassist

“Episode Three departs from the “Great Melodies of the Orchestral Repertoire” and takes us into the world of opera. Massenet’s Meditation from his opera Thais is a turbulent, dramatic, and highly charged journey of contemplation and resignation. The rapidly changing emotional states are compelling and a perfect mirror for our current shared experience.”—Andy Butler, Principal Bassist

“Episode Four, Schubert’s Serenade, is much lighter, simpler, and feels quite revitalizing! It’s a story of romance and longing—a refreshing gentle breeze following a full year of endless drama.”—Andy Butler, Principal Bassist