Concerto for Flute and Orchestra in B minor, Op. 17

Bernhard Romberg (1767–1841) was a German cellist and composer of the Classical and early Romantic eras. Widely regarded as the greatest cello virtuoso of his age, he revolutionized cello technique and was a contemporary and friend of Ludwig van Beethoven.
Born in Dinklage, Germany, Romberg was part of a famous musical family. His father, Anton Romberg, was a celebrated bassoonist and cellist who provided Bernhard with his first lessons. During his youth, Bernhard was inseparable from his cousin, the violinist Andreas Romberg. The two toured Europe as child prodigies, earning a reputation as the "Romberg Duo."
In 1790, both cousins joined the court orchestra of the Elector of Cologne in Bonn. It was here that Bernhard befriended the young Beethoven, who played viola in the same orchestra.
Romberg toured extensively, from Spain to Russia, and solidified his status as the "Paganini of the Cello." He is credited with several major advancements in cello design and pedagogy. He lengthened the cello's fingerboard and thinned the neck to allow for easier access to higher registers. He also developed the "Romberg C-string" (a specific winding technique) to improve resonance.
While primarily a cellist, Romberg’s deep understanding of the "Viennese" style made his wind writing highly successful.