Double bassist Thomas Martin: Man for all seasons

Thomas Martin’s home is a dream come true. The light, airy instrument workshop in the basement of the large house opens onto sun-drenched meadows, inhabited by a dozen horses. Three years ago, as their passion for horses led to a growing collection, Martin, his wife Jane and two of their four children escaped London to settle near Henley-on-Thames.

It’s been a long and eventful journey to this Elysium, and it’s far from over yet: at 60, Martin is as busy as ever, giving recitals, masterclasses, researching, collecting basses and - last but not least -  making instruments. Earlier this year, his acquired expertise on instruments was credited when he was invited to judge at the Triennale Instrument Competition in Cremona, Italy for the first time.