Even if you are not familiar with the names of many violin makers, you have heard of Stradivari. The name is sacred in musical circles, and an authentic Stradivari violin can fetch millions at auction. For modern appraisers, a violin’s price directly correlates to how close it is to Antonio Stradivari and his contemporaries. Stradivari …
Early Violin Making in Mirecourt The origin of violin-making in the northeastern French city of Mirecourt is debated, but a vibrant picture emerges from 17th century records. As many as 50 luthiers were operating in Mirecourt in the 1600s, and the oldest surviving apprenticeship contracts date as far back as 1629. The Mirecourt Guild and Expanded Economy In 1732, …
Mirecourt – A Storied History of French Violin Making Read More »
Congratulations! You’ve decided to play the violin. Maybe you’re a beginner, or perhaps you’re looking to take your study to the next level. Either way, you’re probably in the market for a new instrument. There are many factors involved in choosing a violin. But one of the biggest is violin cost. Violin prices can range …
Understanding Violin Cost: 3 Things You Need to Know About a Violin’s Price Read More »
In 1945, Fred Wilfer, a violin maker, found himself engaged in international espionage. Using a borrowed US Army truck, he was smuggling goods from the Czech region of Bohemia and his hometown of Markneukirchen, both of which had fallen behind the Iron Curtain, to West Germany. As he reached the border, Czech officials called for …
It happened: you’ve been practicing faithfully, the squeaky sound is gone, and finally, your teacher pauses your lesson. “Your sound is coming along,” they say. “I think it’s time to get a real instrument.” Beginning students often start with an entry-level cello to build their skills and decide whether they want to continue playing. But …
Intermediate’s Guide to Buying a Cello – Dolce Violins Read More »
