Description

Dittersdorf – Double Bass Concerto Kr. 172 | Sheet Music with Piano Reduction

Edited by Peyber A. Medina H. | Cadenzas: transcribed from Dittersdorf’s originals by Peyber A. Medina H.

Dittersdorf, Karl Ditters von, the Double Bass Concerto in D/E major by  (Krebs 172) is widely regarded as one of the most performed and significant works in the entire double bass repertoire — a staple of conservatories, auditions, and international competitions. Written during the Classical period by one of the most celebrated composers of his era, it balances melodic elegance with technical demand, making it essential repertoire for both study and performance.

About This Edition

This edition has been carefully prepared by Peyber A. Medina H., who has revised the musical text from primary sources and — crucially — transcribed the cadenzas originally composed by Dittersdorf himself, restoring them as the composer intended. Most available editions replace these with cadenzas written by modern editors; this edition returns to the composer’s own voice.

Why Three Keys?

A distinctive feature of this concerto is that it has historically been performed in different keys depending on the tuning system used. Double basses can be tuned in several ways — standard orchestral tuning, solo tuning, or Viennese tuning — and the sounding key varies accordingly. This edition includes three transpositions so every bassist can choose what fits their instrument:

• • 🎼 D major – Standard orchestral tuning
  • 🎼 E♭ major – Intermediate variant depending on instrument setup
  • 🎼 E major – Common in solo tuning

If you are unsure which version to choose, consult your teacher or luthier based on how your bass is currently tuned.

What’s Included

• Complete solo double bass part
• Piano reduction (accompaniment)
• All three movements
• Original cadenzas transcribed by the editor
• Available in your selected key, all 3 versions.

Ideal For

• • Conservatory and advanced-level students
  • Auditions, competitions, and orchestral trials
  • Professional and semi-professional double bassists
  • Teachers looking for essential Classical repertoire

About the Composer

Karl Ditters von Dittersdorf (Vienna, 1739–1799) was one of the most prolific and admired composers of the Classical period, a contemporary of Haydn and Mozart. His concertos are noted for their stylistic refinement and balance between technical virtuosity and musical expression. The Double Bass Concerto Kr.172, remains his most celebrated contribution to the bass repertoire.