Luigi Boccherini (1743–1805)

Abstract By the late eighteenth century, improvements to cello technique made the instrument the equal of the violin in terms of virtuosity. The prolific cellist-composer Luigi Boccherini bridged the Baroque and Classical style periods with demanding sonatas and concertos that further extended the cello technique, often requiring the cellist to play in the highest registers. In the Austro-Hungarian lands, cello concertos by Joseph Haydn showcased the top European players at the courts of music-loving aristocrats. All over Europe, developments in playing technique gave the cello additional credibility as a solo instrument for concertos and sonatas. Ludwig van Beethoven, whose friends included the best cellists of his day, gave the cello equal footing with the piano in his landmark A major sonata.