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Cavallini

Ernesto Cavallini (1807–1874) was a celebrated Italian clarinetist and composer, widely regarded as the most famous clarinet virtuoso of the 19th century. Born in Milan, he studied at the Milan Conservatory and became the principal clarinetist of La Scala. His dazzling technique and lyrical sound earned him the moniker "The Paganini of the Clarinet."

His career spanned major European musical centers, including a notable 15-year tenure in St. Petersburg as soloist of the Imperial Theatre. Cavallini's playing profoundly impressed Giuseppe Verdi, who composed the challenging clarinet solo in Act III of La forza del destino specifically for him.

As a composer, his works are fundamental to the clarinet repertoire, including the famous '30 Caprices for Clarinet' and the popular virtuoso showpiece 'Adagio and Tarantella.' Despite his remarkable artistry, Cavallini notably performed for most of his career on a simple, six-key clarinet.

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