Giovanni Viotti

Young Viotti, soon after entering the court of Marie Antoinette.

Aside from Viotti being a legendary composer and virtuoso violinist, he also lead an interesting and intriguing life (1755-1824). He met and worked with famous historical leaders, ran into trouble with the British government, dabbled in an alcoholic business, and greatly influenced other well known composers. Here are a few fun facts that I came across while researching Giovanni Viotti:

Catherine the Great (of Russia) is said to have given him a prized Stradivarius as a "love token." It is still in existence and now famously known as "the Viotti Strad." Currently it belongs to the Royal Academy of Music in England.
Viotti served as musician in Marie Antoinette's court until the beginning of the French Revolution (1784-1790s)
He held the position of Opera Manager at King's Theatre in England until he was suspected of political treason in 1798 (*perhaps his ties to France at Marie Antoinette's court were related to his supposed political treason)
Opened an unsuccessful wine business in 1801
Born and died in a humble economic state.

Additionally, Beethoven and Brahms were inspired by Viotti's last ten concertos.
Viotti is strongly associated with creation of modern French bow (now accredited to Tourte)
Undeniably, "the style of [Viotti's] playing demanded such an improved stick."

Marie Hall with Viotti-Strad 1905.

Kreutzer and Rode were influenced by Viotti's playing and bow technique:
"as a whole their methods greatly resemble that of their great master Viotti."

Widely recognized as a unique performer, and received well by public.
Here are several quotes from magazines and newspapers of the time:

"A strong, full tone, indescribable fluency, purity, precision, shadow and light."
"The ease and clarity with which he performed the most difficult passages."
"He performs both expressive and difficult passages perfectly."
"An accurate performance, an exquisite polish, and an admirable quality of tone in the Adagio."
"What energy and what grace combined! What polish in the adagios! What brilliance in the allegros!
"Nothing could be more exquisite than his tones in the second movement."
"His power over the instrument seems unlimited . . . he awakens emotion, gives a soul to sound, and leads the passions captive."
(these quotes found at: http://www.pamelagoldsmith.com/articles/Transitional_Bowing.html)

I never imagined Viotti living a cosmopolitan, yet slightly dangerous life. Furthermore, I was pleased to learn about his impact on the French bow and other great composers such as Beethoven and Brahms. I was particularly fascinated with the period-reviews; they provide insight into a time where much is lost and only rare historical recordings can honestly tell us of the events, opinions and trends of the period.