In the course of the 18th century, and in almost all ofEurope, the lute, the main instrument of the 16th century, gradually decliption was for the German-speaking countries, where still, on the threshold of the 19th century, it was widespread in chamber ensembles and as a solo instrument. The outstanding figure in this late season was Silvius Leopold Weiss (1687-1750), born in Grottkau, the Habsburg city today is known as Grodkow and situated in Poland. His first teacher was his father, Johann Jacob, a capable musician.