Martin Berteau | Six Cello Sonatas op. 1, 2 and 3 cellos

Martin Berteau (Valenciennes 1691 - Angers 1771) is considered the founder of the French school. Dedicated “alli amatori di musica”, these Sonatas have been published in 1748 and this edition is based on that score. The set is made of 6 Sonatas, scored for a cello solo and an unfigured bass, possibly intended for a second cello. The sixth Sonata requires two cellos as solo parts, plus a third line intended for an unfigured bass, so constituting an inedited Trio for three cellos. The solo score is technically demanding but it witnesses a perfect knowledge of the possibilities of the cello as well as a perfect stylistical control. The third Sonata has been erroneusly attributed to Sammartini, thus ensuring an abnormal popularity. Nonetheless, all other Sonatas of the set are not less intriguing and pleasant for both players and audience.