Krumpholtz, Wenzel

About 1750-1817

Violinist; brother of Johann Baptist; principally known for his strong friendship with Beethoven. He was one of the first violins at the Vienna Court Opera, and while there it is possible that he gave Beethoven some violin lessons. At any rate, he was among the first to recognize the greatness of the master and his infiuence did much to bring about Beethoven's first prominence. Krumpholtz also played the mandolin, and Beethoven composed the sonata for that instrument for him. His only published works are Abendunterhaltung, for one violin; and Eine Viertelstunde fur eine Violine.