Arcangelo Corelli (1653-1713)

An Italian composer of great importance, as well as a violin virtuoso.  He is looked upon as the founder of modern violin technique, with its intricacies of bowing, performance of double stops, and chordal effects.  He was not a prolific composer.  His entire output consisted of six opus numbers or collections, of which four are devoted to trio sonatas, one to violin and keyboard, and one to the concerto grosso.  The latter represented a new form of composition of which Corelli is recognized as the creator.  Handel was acquainted with Corelli and was undoubtedly influenced by his instrumental writing.