In this episode, we speak with acclaimed double bassist James VanDemark about his remarkable musical journey to Ukraine, where he recently premiered two new works with the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Theodore Kuchar.

We discuss the commissioning and premiering of two new concerti by Ukrainian composers Maksim Kolomiiets and Mykhailo Shved as part of Lviv's 44th Virtuosos International Festival. We explore the dramatic story behind creating these works during wartime, James' personal connection to Ukraine dating back to his teenage years in Ontario, and much more.

Enjoy, and be sure to learn more about these commissions in this article from The Strad and musical examples as well.

 

Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!

Connect with us

• all things double bass
• double bass merch
• double bass sheet music

 

Thank you to our sponsor!

Upton Bass - From Grammy Award winners and Philharmonic players like ME Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic, each Upton Bass is crafted with precision in Connecticut, USA, and built to last for generations.  Discover your perfect bass with Upton Bass today!

• theme music by Eric Hochberg