He is perhaps best known today for his 21 études for solo cello that constitute the final part of the "Essai sur le doigté du violoncelle et sur la conduite de l'archet" ("Essay on the fingering of the violoncello and on the conduct of the bow") (1806), a seminal work of cello technique.

Duport and Jean-Pierre refined their technique in France under the tutelage of Martin Berteau.

[1] His virtuosic ability allowed him to hold many notable positions while living in France, although he was forced to flee to Prussia as a result of the French Revolution.

[1] Duport resided in Berlin while in Prussia, where he gained the favor of King Friedrich Wilhelm II.

[4] "Essai sur le doigté du violoncelle et sur la conduite de l'archet" ("Essay on the fingering of the violoncello and on the conduct of the bow") is a seminal work of cello technique, by Duport, published by Imbault in Paris in 1806.