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.