The origins of the cello as a solo instrument, and of the kind of solo repertoire compiled in the present set, lie in the gradual emancipation of the cello from it's function as a primarily supportive, accompanying bass. This process began in the second half of the 17th century, firstly in Naples, and then farther afield across the Italian provinces and principalities. Yet the cello would remain an unequal peer of the violin, expressively as well as technically, through the course of the 18th century, with low-string virtuosity centred instead on the increasingly obsolete viola da gamba. Discover the rich history and evolution of Italian cello music through this expertly curated collection.

• Genre: Classical
• Label: Brilliant Classics