Giovanni Bottesini: Composer, Conductor, The Paganini of the double bass, who elevated the instrument from background support to center stage.
Originally a violinist from a talented but poor musical family, Giovanni wanted to attend the Milan Conservatory. A scholarship was his only option. Unfortunately by the time he was able to apply, the only positions left were for bassoon and double bass. Unfazed Giovanni shed for a few weeks, nailed the audition and after 4 years of study, went on to become the most famous double bass soloist of his time.
P.S. Free show tonight at the Tiki Hut in Hilton Head Island, SC! Festivities start around 6.
Dirty Bourbon River Show 
very nice. sharing with my daughter who plays concert bass and complains her parts are boring. saw saw saw rest saw saw rest.