Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra Appoints Principal Double Bassist

Israeli double bassist Naomi Shaham will serve in the position for the upcoming 2021-22 season

The daughter of violin virtuoso Hagai Shaham, Shaham is a protege of Nir Comforty, Rick Stotijin, and Olivier Theiry at Tel Aviv's Buchmann-Mehta School and the Conservatory of Amsterdam.

She previously served as the principal double bassist of the West Eastern Divan Orchestra, a Seville-based ensemble founded by renowned conductor Daniel Barenboim. In 2019, she joined the Budapest Festival Orchestra.

"I am extremely honored and excited to make music with such a great orchestra with an incredibly rich history," Shaham told The Violin Channel. "I love how versatile the ensemble's playing and the program is, and their balance between tradition and innovation.

"I am looking forward to playing in the different types of programs they hold, such as operas, symphonic concerts, and cantatas, and working with the great conductors and musicians in the orchestra."