Alessandro Rolla enjoyed a considerable reputation as a violinist, violist, conductor and composer during his lifetime, and is now best remembered as a teacher of Paganini (with whom he performed in concert). Rolla’s contributions to the viola repertoire recommend him to our attention for their melodiousness, Italianate brio and charm. The winner of three major international competitions, and hailed by The Washington Post for the ‘opal-like beauty’ and ‘phosphorescent energy’ of her playing, young American violist Jennifer Stumm is internationally recognised as a musical innovator and dynamic advocate for her instrument.