Dotzauer, J. J. F. — Twelve Original Pieces, Op. 63, for two cellos

The Twelve Original Pieces for Two Cellos, dedicated to beginners, Op. 63, by J. J. F. Dotzauer (1783—1860) is a most colourful collection, containing a spicy mix of arias from famous operas, original themes, and fugues. The arias are mostly from W. A. Mozart’s La Clemenza di Tito, and G. Rossini’s Tancredi, with a theme and variation from The Magic Flute crowning them all.

Even without employing the thumb, these pieces are challenging, and should not be underestimated. They explore all seven positions, making this the most well-rounded collection of the five (Opp. 52, 58, 156, 159), and a must-have for all cello students.

This edition comes in two versions, Original & Collectors’ Edition.

The Original version is available in either of the following variants: score only, parts only, and score & parts. It is based on the first edition published by Dotzauer at Breitkopf & Härtel in 1823.

The Collector’s Edition adds the new edition of these pieces appeared in the 57 Little Duets compiled by Johannes Klingenberg (1852—1905), and in the early XX century edition by Alwin Schöder (1855—1928).