BOCCHERINI
BOCCHERINI
Luigi Boccherini, an Italian composer and cellist, lived from 1743 to 1805. Renowned for his contributions to chamber music, particularly the string quartet and quintet, Boccherini composed over 100 string quintets, showcasing his exceptional creativity and skill. Much of his career was spent in Spain, under the patronage of the Infante Luis Antonio of Spain, where he produced some of his most celebrated works. In his later years, Boccherini's music gained recognition across Europe, and his influence extended to many composers of the Classical period.
FIVE FACTS
ABOUT BOCCHERINI
1. A Renowned Composer and Cellist: Boccherini was celebrated both for his composition and his exceptional talent as a cellist. He wrote at least 19 sonatas and 12 concertos for the cello, contributing significantly to its development. He created innovative ensembles such as the string quintet with two cellos, piano quintets, and string sextets. His dedication to music is evident in his extensive catalogue of 600 works.
2. Roots in Italy, Flourished in Spain: Born into a musical family in Italy, Boccherini spent most of his life composing for the court in Madrid. He became so integrated into Spanish culture that he occasionally signed documents as "Luis," reflecting the Spanish version of his name, similar to how Lully adapted his name upon settling in France.
3. European Travels and Royal Patronage: While based mainly in Madrid, Boccherini visited various European courts. He enjoyed the patronage of Infante Don Luis of Spain and Frederick William II of Prussia. Known for his stubbornness, he once defied Don Luis's request to alter a composition by instead doubling the length of the passage, leading to his dismissal and eventual protection by Napoleon’s brother, Lucien Bonaparte, in France.
4. A Master Cellist and His Instruments: Renowned as Europe’s greatest cellist, Boccherini likely played some of the finest instruments of his time, including those crafted by the famous luthier Antonio Stradivari. While there's no definitive evidence that Boccherini owned the celebrated 'Boccherini' cello made in 1709, the instrument’s legend persists, especially with Pablo Casals, a 20th-century cellist, who played Boccherini's compositions on it.
5. Admiration and Influence: Boccherini, a great admirer of Joseph Haydn, was sometimes humorously referred to as "Haydn’s wife" due to the perceived similarity in their music. However, many contemporaries like Gluck and Mozart praised Boccherini’s originality. His music saw a revival in the 20th century, partly thanks to The Boccherini Quartet's recordings. Boccherini's compositions have also featured in films, notably in "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World," which included his string quintet that has the name: The Night Music of the Streets of Madrid.