ZYKA jun., Joseph (~1755 - after 1811)
J. Zyka jun., Three Duos for Violoncelli, Potsdam 1796.
2Vc
Joseph Zyka junior was one of five brothers who, like their cellist father Joseph B. Zyka, worked as string players in the Hofkapelle, or court orchestra, of the kings of Prussia in Berlin and Potsdam. His three Duos were written for King Friedrich Wilhelm II of Prussia, who was an enthusiastic cellist. The eighteenth century saw the cello develop from a purely bass instrument to a highly flexible vehicle of great virtuosity. These early classical duets contributed to this development. Both parts are equally interesting, but the first is in general the higher and more difficult of the two.
Editor: Günter and Leonore von Zadow.
Introduction: Michael O'Loghlin.
