Teppo Hauta-aho . Octetto Basso d'Opera II. Double Bass Octet. Completed in October 2009, this 20 minute work for eight double basses is a major addition to the octet repertoire. Teppo Hauta-aho is the most prolific double bass composer in history and this dramatic and evocative one-movement work has a depth and breadth rarely found in the ensemble repertoire. The composer makes use of a wide range of double bass techniques, including percussive effects and harmonics, to create a work of atmosphere and textures and there are musical and technical challenges in equal measure. The open and bleak landscapes of his native Finland are evident in every bar as Hauta-aho creates music which is influenced by the landscape, culture and heritage of this beautiful country. Although written in one extensive movement, there are many defined sections which offer contrast and interest throughout and solo opportuities for each player, particularly basses 1-4. The melodic material is taken from a previous octet, composed for the bassists of the Finnish Opera orchestra some years ago, but the composer develops and extendes the material to create a completely new work which ought to find a permanent place in the octet repertoire. Octetto Basso d'Opera II was composed for Professor Florian Pertzborn (Porto, Portugal) for his international octet project based around the octet by Berthold Hummel, and in 2010 will receive performances in Norway, Portugal and Berlin. This edition includes a score and parts. More details about Teppo Hauta-aho can be found on the 'Biographies' page.. Grade: Advanced