Etudes for Cello Solo

Jean Louis Duport was one of the most important and influential composers for the cello in the first half of the 19th century. A virtuoso himself, he wrote a treatise on the cello, introducing new techniques, expanding the possibilities of the instrument to a great extent. As a demonstration of his new instrumental style he wrote 21 Etudes, in which all his inventions are incorporated. They are extremely difficult, requiring a virtuoso technique and deep musical insight, lifting the etude above the level of a mere exercise to a work of art. This recording, a world premiere, uses a second cello as a continuo basis, and is played with gut strings, as was usual in Duport's time. A must for cellists, cello lovers and anyone interested in early 19th century French instrumental music.