The double bass is a regular symphony orchestra instrument, but not the most logical one to write a concerto for. Still, it was surprisingly popular in the classicist period, with concertos by Haydn (lost), Wagenseil, Vanhal, Kozeluch and others. The 20th century and early 21st century saw a slight revival, with concertos by for instance Tubin, Bryars, Davies, Aho and Skalkottas. Possibly the most famous composer of a double bass concerto is Hans Werner Henze. His 1966 composition is a substantial 30 minutes work in three movements, a perfect example of an unusual concerto sounding like the most logical choice in the world. It is played by Gary Karr and the English Chamber Orchestra under the composer on DG.
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