Domenico Gabrielli: 7 Ricercari for solo double bass (Tramontozzi)

About the Compositions

Domenico Gabrielli wrote seven ricercari for solo cello in 1689, some of the earliest pieces of music composed for cello in history. 

Ricercari (plural of ricercar) are a type of instrumental musical composition from the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods (16th-17th centuries), derived from the Italian verb ricercare (to search out), functioning as preludes, proto-fugues, or studies that explore musical themes through imitation and variation, notably by composers like Bach and Gabrielli. They developed from lute pieces into more complex contrapuntal works for keyboard and other instruments, showcasing technical devices and establishing the mode for subsequent pieces.

Stephen has expertly transcribed these for the solo double bassist. Please note the parts are written in bass, tenor, and treble clef. 

Listen to Stephen perform the Reciercari.

About Stephen Tramontozzi

Stephen Tramontozzi is the Assistant Principal Bass with the San Francisco Symphony since 1980. A native of Arlington, Massachusetts, he studied at the Eastman School of Music, New England Conservatory, and the San Francisco Conservatory. Mr. Tramontozzi is on the faculty at the San Francisco Conservatory, has led master classes across the United States, and has coached members of the SFS Youth Orchestra bass section since its inception. He also formerly served on the faculties of Stanford University, the University of California, Berkeley, and UC Santa Cruz.

His publications include his solo albums Walkabout and Home Bass, chamber music album Urban Bass, and the Solo Cello Suites of J.S. Bach for Double Bass Nos. 1 - 5.

He has recorded the Books of Madrigals by George Crumb under his supervision; the keyboard concerti of J.S. Bach with Awadagin Pratt and the St. Lawrence Quartet; and a CD of chamber music by Lou Harrison.