The Art of Chordal Cello Accompaniment: The Legacy of Johann Baptist Baumgärtner (1723-1782)

This Master's thesis investigates and evaluates the use of the practice of chordal cello accompaniment, as demonstrated in the works of Johann Baptist Baumgärtner (1723-1782). It appears that Baumgärtner’s method, Instructions de musique théorique et pratique à l’usage du violoncello, was one of the first works to try to standardise the rapid evolution of cello technique, especially concerning chordal realisation; however the purpose of this study is to question whether his other lesser known compositions, particularly his collection of duets for two cellos, Extrait des Airs François de plusieurs Operas qui ont été representées could contribute further evidence of this practice. The results of the study indicate that Baumgärtner’s compositions for the cello provide further evidence of the chordal accompaniment practices described in his method and his Extrait are an exceptional example. The analysis of the Extrait conducted as a part of this study suggest that these arrangements are explicitly notated examples of the practice and therefore establish the Extrait as rare and invaluable documentation of what otherwise appears to have been a predominantly improvised practice. Ultimately, this study demonstrates that Baumgärtner’s works are of vital importance to furthering our understanding of chordal cello practice and highlight a distinct lack of understanding concerning the significance of his output