Jean Baptiste Bréval

A probable student of Cupis, Breval was an important French cellist and composer for his instrument. His compositions are wrought with attempts at new structures and techniques as well as variety. The majority of Breval's music was instrumental in nature -- orchestral symphonies, concertos for violin and cello, trios, duos, airs and teaching techniques -- but he also tried his hand at comic opera. His most important and influential work was considered to be "Traite de violoncelle" which was a step-by-step, all inclusive and progressive didactic manuel. ~ Keith Johnson