Somerset Bass Notes

The double bassists at Wells Cathedral School continue to perform for Somerset audiences demonstrating the many great qualities and facets of the double bass. Alexander and David Heyes gave a lunchtime recital on Saturday 1 April at West Harptree Church performing an eclectic and exciting programme of solos and duos from six countries. The large audience were complimentary and astounded at the possibilities of the solo double bass, also commenting on the range of moods and colours in the repertoire which also featured works by both Alexander and David. The bass ensemble have been invited to give a concert in the autumn. Basses Galore! was held at the Silk Mill, Frome on Sunday 23 April. Directed and organised by David Heyes, the concert brought together 18 bassists from across the south of England, including three Wells bassists and one ex-Wellensian. Eloise Riddell, now a professional bassist and teacher in London, Alexander, Jan and Miles were key players in the concert which featured 45 pieces from 10 countries, including 21 premieres and 42 works by living composers. All the Wells bassists performed as soloists, alongside playing in several ensembles, culminating in seven works for a spectacular massed bass orchestra. The programme featured music from the early 16th-century to April 2017 and was a true celebration of the double bass. As ever the Wells bassists demonstrated their great technical skills and musical prowess, a great credit to the school, and embody everything that is great about the youth of today. The future is bright, the future is BASS!