1763-1846

Domenico Dragonetti was born in Venice, where he received his first instruction on the double bass from the Venetian player Berini, who after eleven lessons announced that he could not teach Dragonetti anything more. He was appointed principal double bass of the Opera Buffa in Venice at the age of thirteen. After becoming famous throughout Europe as a soloist, Dragonetti moved to London in 1794, where he became a prominent member of the musical world and a favourite amongst royalty. He was well-acquainted with the composers of his time, including Haydn and Beethoven.