Although composed in 1987 and rehearsed at a Suzuki workshop in New York, Arietta was not premiered until 1999. Originally for 16 double basses, it was first played at Bass-Fest '99 (Reading, UK) and subsequently revised the following year, reducing the ensemble to 12 double basses. The new version was premiered at Bass-Fest 2000 at Woldingham School, conducted by David Heyes.

Arietta is full of rich harmonic textures and timbres, using small motivic elements to produce a colourful wash of sound. Grounded by the pizzicato line of Bass 12, the high ethereal harmonics display a unique sound world.

A rare study in harmonics, this piece for 12 double basses is the minimalist work from this leading Finnish composer. The entire range of the instrument is used and the highest harmonics are grounded by an effective pizzicato bass line for Bass 12. Arietta has been played in Europe and America and makes a useful study in harmonic playing.

Each player only uses a limited number of notes and players of all abilities can be included, creating a magical work for atmospheric textures and soundworlds. The piece can be successfully performed by larger forces to produce a wonderful wash of harmonic colour.

Performance Level: 6; 8; Advanced