Luigi Boccherini

Ridolfo Luigi Boccherini was an Italian composer and cellist of the Classical era. He is renowned for a minuet from his String Quintet in E, Op. 11, No. 5 (G 275), and the Cello Concerto in B flat major (G 482). Born into a musical family in Lucca, Italy, he was initially taught by his father. He later studied in Rome and performed in Vienna. His career flourished in Spain under royal patronage until he was dismissed due to a dispute over a musical passage. He faced personal tragedy with the loss of his patron, wives, and daughters, and died in Madrid in 1805. His works are characterized by Rococo charm and inventive melodies, often incorporating Spanish influences.