Stephen Tramontozzi: Homage to Varèse for solo double bass

About the Composition

Inspired by the 20th Century French composer Edgard Varèse and his treatment and emphasis of timbre and rhythm, this piece is a counterpoint to Varèse's piece for solo flute, Density 21.5.

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 The Solo Cello Suites of J.S. Bach for Double Bass Nos. 2, 3, and 4. 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.