The viola underwent significant development in the 18th and 19th centuries. While previously often considered a neglected filler instrument, this slowly began to change. Benjamin Blake published six duos for violin and tenor (viola) as well as three duos for tenor (viola) and cello.
Several musical centers with outstanding orchestras emerged in Germany and Austria, particularly in Hamburg, Berlin, Mannheim, and Vienna. High-quality music was generally produced there, and the first solo viola pieces began to appear. The viola was also used in operas as a solo accompaniment to some arias, its darker tone creating special effects, as exemplified by Handel.
The most significant event was the publication of Telemann's Viola Concerto in 1731. It is also worth noting that Bach composed his Brandenburg Concertos (1721) around this time, although they were not published. Of these concertos, the third and sixth Brandenburg Concertos are wonderful works for the viola: the third employs 3 violins, 3 viols and 3 cellos with individual parts; the sixth is written for 2 solo viols (without violins), 2 viols, cello and continuo.