19-year-old wins 2024 Bottesini International Double Bass Competition

Ryu Si-heon, a 19-year-old double bassist, fell ill for nearly a month after winning two prizes, including first prize, at the Giovanni Bottesini International Double Bass Competition, held in Crema, Italy, in October. His condition worsened into a severe case of otitis media, eventually requiring a visit to an emergency room.
His win was a historic milestone -- he was the first Korean and first Asian to claim the prestigious award, coming just as he embarked on a new journey in Vienna. The sudden change in environment and the intense pressure of competing in his dream competition seemed to have overwhelmed his body and mind.
“I had always seen the Bottesini Competition as a dream,” Ryu told The Korea Herald during an interview on Dec. 26. “It’s the pinnacle for double bassists, and being too young, I couldn’t participate until this competition.”

Competing against talented musicians from around the world, Ryu faced a rigorous process: four rounds over a week, with each round narrowing the field. The competition culminated in a final round featuring just three musicians, including Ryu. “The pressure was immense, especially with so many seasoned competitors,” he recalled.
Ultimately, Ryu’s performance captivated the judges, earning him first place. His reward was a masterfully crafted double bass valued at over 60,000 euros ($62,000). “It’s a magnificent instrument,” Ryu shared, recounting the effort of traveling back and forth between Vienna and Crema to bring home his prize.
Ryu’s journey with the double bass began with a spark of curiosity and a desire to try something unique. At age 12, he transitioned from playing classical guitar to exploring the double bass after a family friend’s recommendation. “I didn’t want to follow the crowd. Everyone seemed to play piano or violin, so I wanted to do something different,” Ryu recalled.

He attended Seoul Arts High School but pursued an unconventional path by skipping grades and entering Seoul National University at just 16, partly because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now based in Vienna, Ryu studies under the renowned professor Dominik Wagner at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna.
“Professor Wagner is a true inspiration,” Ryu said. “He’s not only a brilliant performer but also a mentor who emphasizes the importance of balance — focusing on quality over quantity in practice.”
Ryu’s ultimate goal is to elevate the double bass from its traditional role in orchestras to a celebrated solo instrument. “When performed live, the double bass has a unique ability to envelop the audience in sound,” he explained. “I want to share that experience with as many people as possible.”
To this end, Ryu said he hopes to release albums showcasing the versatility of the double bass, drawing from both the traditional repertoire and innovative arrangements.
“I want to inspire others to see the double bass as a solo instrument that’s full of possibilities. One of the ways include achieving good results in other competitions,” Ryu said.

