I Musicanti

The mixed instrument chamber ensemble I Musicanti comprises some of the most experienced and respected musicians to be found in the UK, hand-picked by the group’s artistic director, international double bass virtuoso Leon Bosch.

Under Bosch’s direction, I Musicanti presents distinctive programmes with a particular emphasis on music that has been lost and found or simply overlooked: great works by unknown composers and unknown works by great composers.

I Musicanti’s flexible instrumentation means it can play in many formations, from a small string group to large ensembles for pieces such as Louise Farrenc’s Nonet. A forthcoming project to record the 45 symphonies of Haydn’s contemporary Johannes Matthias Sperger even sees it extend to a full chamber orchestra.

Many of the ensemble’s projects are the result of Leon Bosch’s vivid curiosity and commitment, something for which he is well known as a double bassist. But the ensemble also provides a vehicle for its members to pursue their own artistic projects. And although the musicians of I Musicanti are all soloists in their own right, the group also collaborates with international performers of the highest calibre.

In 2021, I Musicanti released their recording of string quintets by Giovanni Bottesini on the SOMM label. And while the group works with prestigious venues to promote its concerts and has appeared on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune, its eye-catching programmes and the quality of performers add something unique to festivals and concert series.

Portfolio - EN / DE

Giovanni Bottesini: String Quintets

This recording presented by Leon Bosch and I Musicanti features three of Giovanni Bottesini’s String Quintets – two are world premiere recordings: Bottesini, as well as being arguably the most significant figure in the history of the double bass, was also an opera conductor and the composer of over a dozen operas, six string quartets and four string quintets.