The 18th century saw a golden age for traveling virtuosos, particularly Italian violinists. Among the leading figures of this era were Geminiani, Veracini, and Locatelli. Many of these artists left their secure positions at Italian princely courts to seek their fortune and prestige in European metropolises such as London, Paris, and St. Petersburg. In these northern European capitals, they faced an uncertain existence full of risks and challenges.
This unsettled life brought not only financial insecurity but also significant opportunities for fame and fortune. Political changes and the support of patrons significantly influenced the virtuosos' fates. For example, Viotti left Paris during the Revolution to pursue new opportunities in London. With skill and a bit of luck, talented musicians were able to establish themselves in northern Europe and later return to their homeland.
Giovanni Battista Viotti (1755–1824) rose to become one of the most outstanding violinists of his era. After studying with Pugnani in Turin, he toured Europe successfully and achieved great fame in Paris through his exceptional virtuosity. His playing style revolutionized violin music and influenced a new generation of violinists such as Rode, Baillot, and Kreutzer. While the 19th century brought difficult times for the Italian violin school, Viotti enjoyed significant success in the 18th century.
The Paris years, in particular, were crucial for Viotti's development. With his expressive and powerful playing style, he turned away from the playful Rococo style. Technical innovations for the instrument, such as the bow developed by François Tourte in the 1780s, are closely associated with Viotti's name. His concertos set standards and inspired numerous composers, including Beethoven.
A contemporary of Viotti was Federigo Fiorillo (1755–1823), who was born in Germany and also made a name for himself as a virtuoso. With performances in Paris and London, and numerous works, including the 36 Caprices, Fiorillo shaped the musical life of his time. While Viotti is considered a defining figure in violin playing, Fiorillo remained a less conspicuous, yet nonetheless significant, personality.
The violin concertos of this era were meticulously cultivated by virtuosos and defined the repertoire of the century. Both Viotti and Fiorillo combined technical brilliance and melodic expressiveness that continue to captivate audiences today. With their blend of virtuosity and melodic charm, they thrilled European audiences and became role models for subsequent generations of violinists.