Schumann, Brahms & Misek: Works For Double Bass & Piano (CD, Genuin)

A double bass sounds masculine and passionate, comparable to a baritone. Highly valued as a harmonic and rhythmic platform, there is little opportunity for the instrument to make a solo appearance – this CD is different. Ekkehard Beringer, a member of the NDR Elbphilharmonie and professor at the Hanover University of Music and Performing Arts, is a virtuoso on the double bass and is able to elicit a wide range of timbres from the instrument. Whether it is original works such as Adolf Mišek’s Sonata in E minor or arrangements of horn and cello works by Brahms and Schumann, Ekkehard Beringer’s playing sounds virtuosic, brilliant and yet down-to-earth, brilliantly accompanied by the pianist Tomoko Takahashi.