Katrina Gordon: Creature Comforts (exotic and endangered species) for double bass & piano

About the Composition

Scottish composer-educator Katrina Gordon was commissioned by an international group of musicians from the UK, USA, Belgium, and Portugal to write a suite of eight pieces for the progressing young bassist, completed in August 2020.

Creature Comforts (exotic and endangered species) is a fascinating suite to engage and inspire young bassists (c.Grade 4-5 level). Each piece is named after a rare and endangered species, featuring a short and fascinating program note about each animal by the composer, with piano accompaniments that are colorful and accessible, aimed at the double bass teacher with some pianistic skills rather than the virtuoso.

The double bass part playing styles such as arco, pizzicato, col legno, and tremolando, alongside a range of keys and time signatures, offer both an educational aspect within attractive pieces that are full of character and invention.

About the Composer

Katrina Gordon studied at the Royal Academy of Music (London) and the Royal Northern College of Music, and went on to pursue a career as a freelance bassoon player in Scotland, performing with many of the leading Scottish orchestras and ensembles. She now lives in her native town of Thurso, located on the far north coast of Scotland, where her musical horizons have been widened by a lively amateur music scene.