ICMA (International Classical Music Awards) and Claseek announce a fundraiser aiming to support the collaboration between two ICMA Gala award winners: composer Ivan Boumans, winner of the Composer of the Year Award 2020/2021, and double bassist Marc-André, winner of the ICMA-Claseek Award 2023.

This project, curated by Remy Franck, President of the IMCA jury, brings together two exceptional talents, with the purpose of composing and performing in premiere a brand-new double bass and orchestra concert.

Ivan Boumans, creator of more than 170 scores, is an acclaimed composer whose works have been performed by prestigious musical ensembles such as the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra or Orchestre National de France. He firmly believes in the untapped potential of the double bass, and thus, this concert aims to bring this instrument into the spotlight.

Marc-André, the first ICMA-Claseek Award winner, is a true pioneer in the field of classical music, with an elegant sound, a profound musicality and an intense desire to push any boundaries. He is the perfect candidate for bringing Ivan Boumans' compositional project to life.

Remy Franck, ICMA President: "When Marc-André told me he was seeking a new double bass and orchestra concert, Ivan Boumans' name immediately sprang to mind. Considering the calibre of the musicians involved, we hope this project will bea great success."

Ivan Boumans: "The double bass has been regarded as a simple accompaniment instrument for way too long. It is, however, an instrument which offers a variety of possibilities to think about. Composing a concert for this instrument is not only a challenge for the composer himself, but also an opportunity to bring this underrated instrument into the spotlight."

Marc-André: "My life's main goal has always been to push the limits, to do something that has never been done before. I find it to be my duty as a performer to work with modern composers in order to create something never seen before in the history of music and to show the world how beautiful this underrated instrument can sound."

The artists involved, Claseek and ICMA invite the audience to support this project. The link for this project can be found here.