From Bach to Beethoven

Invented in the mid-16th century, the violin emerged as the stringed instrument of choice during the Baroque era, culminating with the concertos, chamber music, and solo works of J. S. Bach. Virtuosi such as Tartini added flair; Mozart, a proficient violinist himself, contributed sonatas on a sublime new level; and Beethoven, master of drama and musical prophet, paved the way to the future with new heights of expression for the instrument.