David Popper (1843–1913), born in Prague, was a Bohemian cellist and composer renowned as one of the greatest cellists of the Romantic era. A celebrated performer and influential teacher, he left an indelible mark on the world of cello playing.
Popper was among the last great cellists to perform without an endpin, although a drawing from 1880 reveals that he eventually adopted its use later in life. His artistry was widely admired, and he frequently collaborated with prominent musicians of his time, including violinist Jenő Hubay and Johannes Brahms. In fact, Popper joined them for the premiere of Brahms’s Piano Trio No. 3 in Budapest on December 20, 1886.
As a composer, Popper dedicated most of his work to his beloved instrument, crafting nearly 100 compositions that continue to challenge and inspire cellists today. Among his major works are four concertos, a poignant Requiem for Three Cellos and Orchestra (1891), and numerous virtuosic showpieces. His Elfentanz (Dance of the Elves), with its dazzling runs across the cello’s upper registers, remains a thrilling challenge for even the most accomplished performers.
Popper also created music that highlighted the cello’s lyrical and expressive qualities, extending its range and showcasing its unique voice in pieces like Spinnlied (Spinning Song). Beyond his compositions, his legacy endures through his High School of Cello Playing (Op. 73), a collection of études that remains an essential resource for advanced students.
David Popper’s genius lies not only in his technical mastery but also in his ability to bring out the cello’s soul, ensuring his place as a towering figure in the instrument’s history.
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