Franz Xaver Hammer (1741-1817). These five sonatas are virtuosic, as was their composer, who was one of the last performers on the bass viol, before its virtual demise at the turn of the 18th century. The sonatas have a bass part that may be played by cello or other bass instrument. In the absence of a figured bass, the editor, David Rhodes, has supplied a suggested accompaniment which may be played by harpsichord, fortepiano or other appropriate chordal instrument. These sonatas may be heard in excellent performances by Simone Eckert and the Hamburger Ratsmusik on Christophorus CHR 77303.
