Antonio Rolla (April 18, 1798 - March 19, 1837) was born in Parma, Italy, and played violin, viola, and composer. He was considered a virtuoso on both instruments.

Rolla began musical studies with his father, composer Alessandro Rolla, and was highly gifted at a young age. in 1807, at the age of nine, he was a violinist with the Teatro di Pavia, and held that position till he was sixteen. A couple years later, he performed duets with Niccolo Paganini at the behest of his father, and in 1820, Paganini wrote a letter speaking highly of Rolla's ability. A year later he would become concertmaster of the Teatro Comunale in Bologna and played with his father at the Teatro alla Scala. Later on in 1823, at the recommendation of Paganini, Rolla accepted a position as concertmaster of the Staatskapelle in Dresden. in 1836 Rolla was taken ill, and died the next year.

Rolla wasn't as prolific a composer as his father, but did write a few pieces, including 6 Idylles for Viola. The first movement utilizes many double stops, with the lower note often just being a drone, and at the end of the work, harmonics are utilized. This peaceful movement moves at a slow, but steady pace.

The second Idylle again uses double stops frequently, in this more regal movement.

Movement three sounds as if it were inspired by a drinking song, or a folksong, and has a very jolly air to it.

We were unable to find a video of the fourth and sixth movements, but here is the fifth movement, which utilizes double stops frequently, just like the other movements. While the other movements have a cheerfulness about them, this movement is in minor, with a sense of gravitas, until the last minute or so, when it turns to major.

We were sadly unable to find a recording of this wonderful, obscure piece to share with you! Hopefully that will change one day.