Biography
A pupil at Naples Conservatory, Lanzetti focused his energies on mastering the cello and on writing music. He held positions in Lucca’s court chapel and served Vittorio Amedeo II in Turin; despite lengthy journeys across Europe he retained the Turin appointment. During the 1730s he spent time in London and may have remained there as late as 1754. His presence helped raise the cello’s standing among London audiences. Returning to Turin by 1760, he rejoined the chapel and continued as a member until his death. Ahead of Boccherini, he advanced the cello’s status as a solo voice. In his pieces the instrument was freed from exclusive bass-line duties and demanded virtuoso command, most notably in its bowing requirements. The cello sonata emerged from these efforts. He brought the instrument’s repertory close to the expressive reach of the violin concerto. Each work followed a three-movement plan, placing an intense slow movement between outer sections that feature fully elaborated thematic material.