Daniel Chiva Sanz: Trio, for two double basses and piano

About the Composition

Trio for two double basses and piano was a commission for my colleague William Mattimore's senior recital at Frost Music School (University of Miami). The Trio explores the opportunities that combining both solo and orchestra tuning open creating different textures in a minimalist character. There can be found multiple extended techniques like percussion on the double bass or bowing on the bridge. This piece leads the audience through different soundscapes creating moments of contemplation, excitement, and expressivity.

Note from the Composer

This piece is one of the small amounts of music that combines the two tunings of the double bass. It can be considered a chamber music piece where the most important part is the texture created, even when there are some challenging moments for the double bass.

About the Composer

Daniel Chiva Sanz is a Spanish double bassist. He earned his Bachelor's Degree from the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Castellón in Spain, his Master’s Degree from Southeastern Louisiana University, and his Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) from the University of Miami.  

After freelancing in South Florida, Daniel performed internationally with the Auckland Philharmonia in New Zealand. Returning to Europe, he played trial positions with the Ulster Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, as well as guest performances with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra.  

In Spain, Daniel regularly performs with top ensembles including the Orquesta Sinfónica de Madrid, Orquesta Sinfónica de Bilbao, and Orquesta Sinfónica de Castilla y León. He served as interim Assistant Principal with the Orquesta y Coro de Radio Televisión Española (ORTVE) in 2026 and holds the Substitute Principal position with the Orquesta Sinfónica de Navarra for the 2026–2027 season.  

Beyond his orchestral career, Daniel is a prolific composer, arranger, and author. His work includes restoring neglected bass repertoire—most notably his arrangement of Theodor A. Findeisen’s forgotten Concerto No. 2 for chamber orchestra and piano quintet—as well as creating innovative pedagogical publications such as The School of Patience and Daily Mozart. He also remains an active performer across diverse genres, including tango, folk, and children's music.