Kraft, Nicolaus (1778-1853)

Bohemian cellist and composer. He was the son of Anton Kraft, with whom he studied and travelled. He settled in Vienna in 1790 and became chamber musician to Prince Lobkowitz in 1796, playing in the Schuppanzigh Quartet from the same time. In 1801 he had further lessons, with Duport in Berlin, and in 1809 became a member of the Vienna Court Orchestra. In 1814 he went to Stuttgart as a member first of the Court Opera and then of the Court Chapel.

Works His works include four cello concertos, a Scène pastorale for cello and orchestra, a fantasy for cello and string quartet, and duets and divertissements for two cellos.