ABOUT THE ARTIST Braden Baker, Music Education Braden Baker is a senior Music Education major at West Chester University. He has had the pleasure of studying the last four years with Professor Paulsen. Braden has played in many ensembles throughout his college education including, Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra, and many others. Outside of the West Chester area, he has had the opportunity to play with University of Pennsylvania Wind Ensemble, and the Noah Spangler Quartet opening for Emmet Cohen’s trio, and Chris Oatts Pretty Big Band. These diverse experiences have made him a more well-rounded musician. Music has been a large part of Braden’s life from a young age. After beginning the double bass, he had many opportunities to collaborate with different musicians and peers throughout his life. His time playing in the Harrisburg Youth Symphony Orchestra at a young age helped establish music as an important part of his life. He is grateful for the many lifelong friendships and memories that have been created through music. Through these experiences, Braden’s appreciation for music education has continued to grow and has shaped his desire to share the same meaningful experiences with future students. Braden’s plans post-graduation includes entering the field of music education while continuing to play in different local ensembles. His goal is to educate and inspire the younger generation through music, just as he was by previous teachers. Through teaching and performing, Braden hopes to share his passion for music with others and make a meaningful impact on his future students and colleagues.
PROGRAM NOTES DUETTO (1824) Gioachino Rossini’s Duetto for Cello and Double Bass is a lively work that brings out a unique partnership between the cello and double bass. Written in the 19th century this piece combines lyrical melodies with playful passages throughout. Rather than be strictly accompaniment and soloist, the cello and bass share musical ideas that interact throughout the work.
CONCERTO NO. 2 (1845) Giovanni Bottesini’s Concerto No. 2 is one of the most well-known works in the double bass repertoire. Bottesini was an Italian double bassist, composter and conductor operas. This concerto features different virtuosic passages, romantic melodies, and challenging techniques that showcase the double bass in a way that is often not seen. This work remains an important piece for bassists and continues to demonstrate the lasting influence that Bottesini had on the community.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Braden would like to thank Adan and Angellina for playing and supporting this performance. He is incredibly thankful to his friends, family, and professor for supporting him throughout the years at West Chester University.