Justus Johann Friedrich Dotzauer was a German cellist and composer, author of many symphonies, concertos, operas, chamber works and sonatas, but mainly known for his Violoncellschule, 4 volumes of 113 exercises and caprices for unaccompanied cello. Born in Haselrieth to a music minister father, he learned music at a young age, including the piano, bass, violin, clarinet and horn. He was also instructed in theory by the local organist. Having chosen the cello as his instrument, he went on to study with various teachers, eventually finding his way into orchestras.