David Popper
Popper, David (1843-1913). Czech violoncellist. Studied violoncello at the Prague Conservatoy (1855-1861) under Julius Goltermann. Subsequently he undertook a series of very successful concert tours - Dalibor 1/6/1862 reported he would be travelling to London to give concerts - and was [see Dalibor 10/8/1862] appointed to the Hohenzöllern orchestra. From 1868 until 1873 he occupied the post of principal violoncellist in the court opera in Vienna. Following further artistic travels, including as ’cellist in a piano trio that included his wife, Sofie Mentnerová, he became professor at the Musical Academy in Budapest (from 1886). He composed much for his instrument, including important didactic works.