William Corbett English violinist, composer, collector Country: Great Britain

1. William Corbett
2. Early Life and Career
3. Italian Influence and Travels
4. The "Thirty-Five Concertos"
5. Other Works
6. Instrument Collection

William Corbett

William Corbett was an English violinist, composer, and collector. He is best known for his publication of "Thirty-Five Concertos" in 1741, which he claimed imitated the musical styles of various European regions.

Early Life and Career

Corbett began playing in the orchestra of London's New Theatre in 1700. In 1705, he was appointed principal director of the orchestra at Her Majesty's Theatre. From 1709, he was a violinist in the Royal Orchestra, and in 1716, he became its music director.

Italian Influence and Travels

Between 1715 and 1726, Corbett spent much time traveling in Italy, absorbing the influence of the Italian opera. He also visited other European countries.

The "Thirty-Five Concertos"

In 1741, Corbett published his three-volume edition of "Thirty-Five Concertos." In the preface, he claimed that each concerto imitated the musical style of a different European region.

Other Works

In addition to the concertos, Corbett also published several collections of sonatas for instrumental duos and basso continuo. His early works included several operas, such as "Henry VI" (1699), "As You Find It" (1703), "Love Betray's, or The Agreeable Disappointment" (1703), and "British Enchanters, or No Magick Like Love" (1706).

Instrument Collection

Corbett was also known for his collection of musical instruments, which reportedly included a violin that belonged to Arcangelo Corelli.