Giacobbe Cervetto facts for kids
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Giacobbe Cervetto (born 1680 – died January 14, 1783) was a famous musician. He was an Anglo-Italian Jewish cellist and composer. He lived in England during the 1700s and was one of the best cello players of his time.
About His Life
Not much is known about Giacobbe Cervetto's early life. People think he was born in northern Italy. Some sources say he was from Verona. Others called him "a Venetian," meaning from Venice.
Moving to England
Cervetto first came to England in 1728. At first, he sold beautiful stringed instruments. These included violins made by Stradivarius, which are very famous. Around 1739 or 1740, he decided to live in England permanently.
He became the main cellist at the Drury Lane Theatre. A musician and historian named Charles Burney met him there. Burney joined the theatre's orchestra in 1744. He said that Cervetto made the cello a popular instrument in England. Burney also noted that Cervetto helped people appreciate the cello more.
A Unique Performer
Charles Burney described Cervetto as an "honest Hebrew." He also mentioned Cervetto had a very large nose and wore a fancy diamond ring. Burney thought Cervetto was not the best performer. However, audiences at the Covent Garden theatre often cheered for him. They would sometimes shout, "play up, Nosey!" This shows he was well-known and liked by the public.
Later Life and Family
Cervetto kept in touch with other members of the Basevi family in England. This family included the architect George Basevi. It also included Maria D'Israeli, who was the mother of Benjamin Disraeli, a future Prime Minister.
Giacobbe Cervetto lived to be 101 years old. He passed away in a snuff shop in Haymarket, London. In his will, he left a large amount of money, £20,000, to his son. His son, James Cervetto, also became a cellist and composer. Giacobbe Cervetto's will stated that he wished to be buried following the traditions of the Church of England.
Musical Works
Giacobbe Cervetto wrote many pieces for the cello and other instruments. Here are some of his known works:
- Six sonatas or trios, Op. 1 (published in 1741)
- Twelve Sonatas for Cello and B.c. (published around 1750)
- Eight Solos for a German Flute and B.c. Op. 3 (published in 1757)
- VI Trios for 2 Violins and Violoncello/Cembalo (published in 1758)
- Six Lessons or Divertimenti for 2 Violins and B.c. Op. 4 (published in 1761)
