Brahms: «Cello-Sonatas op. 38 and op. 99» | Schubert: «Arpeggione Sonata»

Romantic Cello Music

During the 18th century, the cello, as a solo instrument, did not hold any privileged status. Up until the end of that century, the cello functioned primarily as a continuo instrument within the framework of the gradually disintegrating ground bass practise. In addition, the change in style to classicism implied on almost exclusive preference for upper voice melody which is expressed better by the violin and flute than viola and cello.

But the sonorous "cantabile" of the cello may have appealed to and stimulated the romantic composers more strongly than those of the 18th century. In addition, a new technique for writing movements arose, which allowed for and suggested the thematic-melodic lead not only in the treble but now in the middle voice of the tenor or alto register as well.