Andrés Martín: Leap of Faith for solo double bass (2024)

About the Composition

Leap of Faith was composed by Cormac Apple, David Cannelora, Victor Chen, Ama Fong, Jack Gustke, Jordan Jaeger, Madalyne Kommavong, Yoav Konig, Owen Kuo, Genevieve Lo, Kayden Mai, Jack Penland, Allison Prakalapakom, Georgia-Lee Shelton, Audrey Siu, Sophia Wahanik during the sessions of the Composition Workshop held at the 2024 Golden Gate Bass Camp in San Francisco, led by Andrés Martín.

Premiere

Leap of Faith premiered on June 21st, 2024, at Drew School in San Francisco, California.

About Andres Martin

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Andrés Martín is a celebrated composer, producer, and virtuoso double bass soloist whose work resonates with audiences worldwide. Andrés's compositions are renowned for their emotional depth and cultural richness, drawing from his diverse experiences across Argentina, Costa Rica, Venezuela, Uruguay, Chile, Brazil, Mexico, England, Germany, Italy, Spain, Denmark, and the United States.

Andrés Martín has dedicated himself primarily to composing for the last few years, creating new works annually that are performed and commissioned by virtuoso soloists, chamber ensembles, and orchestras globally. His music spans continents, showcasing his passionate and emotionally moving musical voice. Audiences and performers alike often find deep meaning in his compositions, frequently moved to tears by the profound emotions his music evokes.

As the principal bass of the Orquesta de Baja California from 2002 to 2023, Andrés played a crucial role in the orchestra's success. He founded and directed the Contrabajos de Baja California International Bass Festival from 2003 to 2019, fostering a vibrant community of bass enthusiasts and professionals.

Currently, Andrés serves as the composer-in-residence for The Hutchins Consort and Camarada, prestigious chamber ensembles in California's southwest. His compositions, such as “New Beginnings, concerto for Hutchins violin consort and Orchestra,” “Abrazar al viento," and various concertos, highlight his ability to blend cultural influences with emotional power.

The year 2024 is particularly significant, featuring the world premieres of several of his latest works. The premiere of his "Morgante" Concerto for violin and orchestra, performed by Samuel Vargas and the San Bernardino Symphony, conducted by Anthony Parnther, was a resounding success. He also wrote the Anthem for the 2024 World Design Capital event held in San Diego and Tijuana, joining both San Diego Youth Orchestra and Tijuana Orquesta Juvenil. Andrés has also composed two cello concertos, two bass concertos, and “Alma de fueye” Bandoneon Concerto, set to premiere in 2024 by the great Cesar Olguín.

In 2019, Andrés received the International Society of Bassists Composition Award, becoming the first Latin American composer to receive this honor, in recognition of his contributions to the repertoire of the double bass. His Double Bass Concerto No. 1 has been performed in over 30 countries around the world, serving as the required work for several international solo competitions and orchestral auditions worldwide, as well as a subject of research papers in universities in Europe and the United States.

Andrés has written about 70 works for solo double bass, plus several other chamber and orchestral works, as well as concertos for solo instruments. He has also contributed to the musical community through his signature solo double bass, designed for Eastman Strings, which has reached players worldwide. As a D’Addario artist, he continues to influence and inspire fellow musicians, enhancing the artistry of the global music community.

Andrés Martín's career is a testament to his dedication to composition, bridging cultures and connecting people through the universal language of music. His work continues to inspire and resonate with audiences and musicians alike.