In this episode, we speak with acclaimed double bassist James VanDemark about his remarkable musical journey to Ukraine, where he recently premiered two new works with the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Theodore Kuchar.
We discuss the commissioning and premiering of two new concerti by Ukrainian composers Maksim Kolomiiets and Mykhailo Shved as part of Lviv’s 44th Virtuosos International Festival. We explore the dramatic story behind creating these works during wartime, James’ personal connection to Ukraine dating back to his teenage years in Ontario, and much more.
Enjoy, and be sure to learn more about these commissions in this article from The Strad and musical examples as well.
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- theme music by Eric Hochberg