Since his arrival in The Netherlands in 2009, double bassist James Oesi has become a well known face in the classical and contemporary music world. As one of the few concentrating on the bass as a solo instrument, he has performed solo programmes (including works by Bach, Beethoven and Rachmaninoff, among others) in prominent venues such as Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw, Concertgebouw Brugge, Utrecht’s TivoliVredenburg, The Oosterpoort in Groningen, festivals such as Huddersfield Music Festival (UK), November Music, Oerol, Festival Classique and at festival Wonderfeel (where his concert was later named by Dutch National Public Radio 4 as one of the festival’s highlights). James has toured South Africa and France and played with South African Jazz Legend Abdullah Ibrahim at the North Sea Jazz Festival.
“A sensitive and knowledgeable musician who has much to share and a very natural and confident
performer.” Gary Karr, world renowned bass soloist
“If you have a man like James Oesi, then you know it’s there, it sounds good, and the bass is a solo
instrument.” Hans Haffmans, host of Dutch NPO Radio 4
“Here was a young musician of uncommon intelligence and insight, clearly destined, given the right
encouragement, to contribute to the world of music not only as a player but a creative force.” Geoffrey Simon, acclaimed conductor and record producer
