Pierre Rode traveled to Paris in 1787 and soon became a favourite pupil of Giovanni Battista Viotti, who was so impressed by the young violinist's talent that he charged him no fee for lessons. Under Viotti’s guidance, Rode inherited his teacher’s style, later adding greater mildness and refinement to it.
Rode studied under Viotti during his early years in Paris, beginning around age fourteen, as also confirmed by Russian sources stating that Viotti provided him free instruction after being impressed by his abilities. Rode continued to maintain ties with his teacher, meeting him again in London during his travels.
