Where did cadenzas begin to be placed after the 18th and 19th centuries?

Cadenzas historically served as opportunities for soloists to display their virtuosity and creativity within a piece. During the late 18th and 19th centuries, there was a shift in performance practice regarding the placement of cadenzas. Traditionally, cadenzas were often found at the end of the piece or movement, but composers began to place them in unconventional spots, allowing for greater expressiveness and improvisation throughout the performance. This change contributed to the overall character of compositions from this period, where soloists could showcase their skills at various strategic moments rather than adhering to a fixed structure.

This focus on innovative placements reflects an evolving attitude towards performance that embraced spontaneity and individual interpretation, making the music more engaging and dynamic.