Fine Instruments, Makers and Stories

An inside look at the violin making world The violin – a musical instrument popular since medieval times. The classical instrument as we know it today was first developed around the 16th century in Italy and improved during the 17th and 18th centuries, some experiments and studies helped luthiers through the year to get to the […]

The Legendary Guarneri 'del Gesù' If you are a passionate violin lover, then you must have come across the name of the legendary Guarneri “del Gesù”. Did you know that he shares the platform with Antonio Stradivari when it comes to recognized violin makers in History? Besides this, there are many other things that will […]

A trip to Cremona is like taking a trip back in time to when art and music were all over the cities. Cremona is one of the most important cities in Italian violin making, where generations of instrument makers have left their mark on music history. This beautiful city welcomes all kinds of travelers, thanks […]

Violin valuation is a topic that interests musicians, collectors, and investors alike. Whether you inherited an old violin, are thinking about buying one, or already own a valuable instrument, understanding how violins are valued can help you make better financial and artistic decisions. Unlike mass-produced instruments, violins often gain value over time, especially when they […]

The decision to invest in a viola can be life-changing for musicians, collectors, and educators. This instrument plays a fundamental role in shaping the richness and depth of an ensemble, and the quality of the viola directly influences the sound a musician can produce. Understanding viola prices is therefore not simply about budgeting. It is […]

All musicians want to improve their performance at some point, and if you have been in the music world for a little longer, you know that accessories have a very important role in this. It's normal for musicians to change them once and a while, but is there a right time? When should you replace […]

Notable Sales: Violin By Ferdinando Gagliano, Naples, 1771

When we talk about finding the perfect or the best violin for you, does it come to mind if a traditional handcrafted or industrialized violin would fit you better? Well, this kind of question is typical when you are considering your options to buy a new instrument, and in the violin market, there are two […]

What Violin did Paganini play? Housed since 1851 in Genova inside Palazzo Doria Tursi, is one of Guarneri’s most wonderful masterpieces. ‘Il Cannone’ was Niccolò Paganini’s affectionate instrument and today is exhibited in a particular room inside the museum; along with the ‘Cannone’ visitors can see the fittings and some other accessories owned by Paganini. […]

The history of bow making is an amazing topic and with many interesting facts! But how much do you know of the skillful bow makers who developed and shaped our modern violin bow as it is today? The French bow-making tradition has its roots in Mirecourt, a small town in the Vosgian mountains in France. The […]