Bottesini

The music of Giovanni Bottesini is a must for double bass players. It was a dream come true for me to have the opportunity to record my favourite Bottesini pieces with my favourite ensemble Amsterdam Sinfonietta, who I have so enjoyed working with for the past ten years.

And it is an unforgettable experience to make a recording with friends including the top soloists Liza Ferschtman, Monika Leskovar, Candida Thompson and Hans Eijsackers, not to forget my own sister Christianne.

‘The Best Bottesini CD Ever? Rick Stotijn is a first rate virtuoso, a real master of his instrument. As a splendid recital and a revelatory portrait of a much-maligned composer, this disc stands in a class all its own.’

– Classics Today

‘Rick Stotijn’s bass can match Liza Ferschtman’s agile violin playing not only in the hair-raising rapid figurations in which the piece abounds, but also in the work’s lovely cantabile melodies. Enthusiastically recommended – a disc not to be missed.’

– HR Audio *****

‘He plays the double bass with an ease that belies its size and technical demands, so much so that the instrument itself ceases to be the medium and becomes the music.’

– Classical Music Sentinel

‘Stotijn makes his double bass yearn, moan but above all: sing. His technique is phenomenal.’

– Nederlands Dagblad