The Transcriptions Series series
Recital Music publish a wealth of original works for double bass alongside a popular, accessible and growing range of transcriptions for bassists of all ages and abilities. Most transcriptions published by Recital Music are by David Heyes, who has a successful and proven track record when arranging for double bass.
Theme & Variations is scored for flute (or violin) and double bass. The edition includes a score and parts, including a flute part in G major to be played with double bass in orchestral tuning, and a part in A major for double bass in solo tuning.
The simple and effective theme is followed by six lively and contrasting variations ending with bright and breezy coda. The flute has the majority of the melodic material ably supported by a lively and supportive double bass accompaniment, primarily on the G string and in low thumb position, and the G major/minor tonality offers a work of beauty and great character. Ideal for the professional or amateur, this would fit easily into any recital and for any audience.
Johann Baptist Vanhal (1739-1813) was a prolific and successful composer and composed at least 100 string quartets, 73 symphonies, 95 sacred works, and a large number of instrumental and vocal works. He composed a number of works for double bass, including a Concerto, which is popular with bassists into the 21st-century and is at the heart of the repertoire from the late 18th-century.
