Höri Musiktage Lunch surprise – James Oesi

**Lunch Surprise – [James Oesi](James Oesi)** The double bassist and exceptional artist is the 2026 Artist in Residence. Mon, Aug. 10; Tue, Aug. 11; Fri, Aug. 14; Sat, Aug. 15 | 12:30 p.m. Various locations on the grounds of the Augustinian Monastery. **Free admission** The double bassist and exceptional artist is the Artist in Residence for 2026. His lunchtime concerts—surprise programs featuring selections from his extensive solo repertoire—take place at various locations on the grounds of the Öhningen Monastery. “Hardly anyone would have thought these thrilling sonic adventures—combined with an extremely engaging live presence—possible,” writes music journalist Stefan Pieper enthusiastically about James Oesi, a native of South Africa, and his captivating interpretations of Luciano Berio, Johann Sebastian Bach, and Sofia Gubaidulina. And conductor and record producer Geoffrey Simon raves about this young “musician of extraordinary intelligence and insight, who … is destined to contribute to the world of music not only as a performer but also as a creative force.” Since his arrival in the Netherlands in 2009, James Oesi has become a familiar face in the world of classical and contemporary music. As one of the few musicians who focus on the double bass as a solo instrument, he has performed solo programs—including works by Bach, Beethoven, and Rachmaninoff—in Europe’s most prestigious concert halls.