Customer Reviews

Domenico Dragonetti in England (1794-1846): The Career of a Double Bass Virtuoso

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If you are a double bass player and have ever wondered about the development of this most noble musical instrument, you must read this meticulously researched, carefully presented work. Palmer reveals many interesting facets of Dragonetti's life and career in England: his performing technique and compositional style, his personal relationships, the working conditions that he and other musicians of that period endured, and the social/political/musical climate of early 19th century England. This book also dispels many erroneous beliefs that have been perpetuated by less informed authors. Dragonetti was a consummate performer, a clever businessman, and the first major virtuoso of this instrument. He "exerted a profound influence on the history of double bass playing: particularly its reception, status, function, and technique". After I read it I ran right out and bought myself a German bow!

This is an unbelievably thorough book unearthing more about "Il Drago" than you probably thought was possible. Admittedly, it is a pretty heavy read at times but worth it for the die hard bass fan. Dragonetti is such an important figure to the history of the bass. It is nice to see something as well written as this about such an important bassist. It shows all of Dragonetti's eccentric behavior and his wonderful sense of humor. Bassists weren't wrapped too tight, even back then!