Popper, David

1846-

Violoncellist; born at Prague. He received his musical training at the Conservatory in his native city, under Goltermann. In 1863 he toured through Germany. Von Bülow played in concerts with him and obtained for him the title of chamber virtuoso to Prince Hohenzollern. Continued his tour through Holland, Switzerland, and England, and on returning to Austria in 1867 made his Vienna debut. For five years he was solo cellist at the Court Opera, but in 1873 he resigned and resumed his journey, visiting the principal European cities, and touring the provinces, Ireland and Scotland. Since 1896 he has been professor at the Royal Conservatory in Budapest. Popper is one of the greatest of contemporary cellists. He plays in a polished, classical style, though full of expression, and his tone is large. His numerous works for his instrument are excellent and popular. They include Sarabande and Gavotte; Drei Stücke; Spinning Song; and suite in A; polonaise; serenade; suite, Im Walde; concertos in C and B minor; Scottish fantasie, etc.; besides forty studies, published in four volumes, called The Monumental Violoncello School.