Ruan Baartman, principal double bassist of the Free State Symphony Orchestra will take centre stage as a soloist on 16 May in the Odeion Concert Hall, leaving Bloemfontein audiences to encounter a rare musical experience.
“It is a rare opportunity for the double bass to be featured as a solo instrument, so I am very grateful and excited,” Baartman says. “And of course, to do it with my home orchestra makes it even more special.”
The concert will showcase the virtuosic music of Bottesini, often referred to as the “Paganini of the double bass.” Baartman explains, “Like Paganini, Bottesini pushes the limits of the instrument technically and musically. Audiences can expect virtuosity and bel canto lyricism.”
A highlight of the programme is the Grande Allegro “Alla Mendelssohn”, and Baartman describes it as “a pastiche of Italian flair, lyricism and German structure and refinement”.
According to Baartman, the performance carries deep personal significance. “I started my musical journey almost 25 years ago at the Mangaung String Programme formerly known as Bochabela String Orchestra. I then went on to study in the UK and I have since returned to South Africa,” Baartman shares.
He says his role as a principal double bassist in the orchestra is to provide a harmonic and rhythmic foundation. “As a solo artist, I get to be a bit freer and creative. Audiences can expect to hear the double bass in a completely different way than they have before.”
