Davidov, Karl (1838–1889)

Russian cellist and composer. He made his first appearance at the Leipzig Gewandhaus in 1859, and later became first cellist in its orchestra and professor at the Conservatory. In 1862 he was appointed to a similar post at the St Petersburg Opera and was director of the Conservatory there 1876–86. He wrote four cello concertos and many other works for his instrument.