Stradivarius Violins: Often Imitated, Never Duplicated

Every child who aspires to be a violinist knows the name of Antonio Stradivari and also understands that violins that bear his name, in the Latin form Stradivarius, are among the finest musical instruments ever constructed. Stradivarius violins are famous for both the amazing prices they can command and for the purity and beauty of the music they produce.

For many centuries, the top of the line stringed instrument was the Italian violin, and most of the premier violin designers in the history of the world were Italian designers. All violinists today are familiar with names such as Amati and Guarneri, but by far the most well known and respected name in the history of violin creation is Stradivarius. He was a student of the master Amati, but his skills soon surpassed his esteemed mentor.

In addition to violins, Stradivari also made violas, cellos, guitars and harps, which accompanied the Stradivarius violin in some groups and orchestras. Approximately 70% of the instruments Stradivari created survive today, the majority of these being playable and in use. The fact that these instruments have survived the nearly 300 years since his death only reinforces the idea of quality.

There are two distinguishing characteristics of the Stradivarius violins in addition to any other stringed instrument made by a luthier. (The luthier is craftsman of any sort of stringed musical instrument. The word originates from the root of "lute.") The first characteristic was construction, as the style of the bending in the curvature of the central portion and the case became modernized. Stradivari in addition altered the fat and slim portions of the body to an exact measurement which he developed into the ideal tone, as an outcome his musical instruments are quite alike in sound.

It has long been believed that the protective varnish coating on the Stradivarius is the key to its uniqueness. It's renowned creator developed a brand new formula, which other makers of stringed instruments have been attempting to copy ever since. While they continue to strive to achieve his results, their attempts at analyzing his ingenious techniques are stymied by their understandable unwillingness to risk destroying one of his rare instruments in the process.

A situation in which a famous violinist would turn down the chance to play a Stradivarius violin is highly unlikely. It's difficult to own one or more of these prized instruments as they cost upwards of $3.5 million. Because there are so many imitations, these instruments are kept careful track of.

All real "Strads" have a label that states in Latin, "Antonius Stradivarius Cremonensis Faciebat Anno" ("made in Cremona by Antonio Stradivari") with a date at the end of the inscription. Unfortunately, so do almost all fake ones! Most beginners have an inexpensive instrument with that exciting inscription and then a tiny "copy of" or "replica" somewhere on the label as a reality check. Some countries even extensively regulate what must go on the labels of replicas.

Ye Old Violin Shop features every type of violin for sale. Whether acoustic or electric, you'll find superb examples from Italian, German, French and other violin makers. If you're a student and seeking a fine Italian violin, be sure to consider one of the fine copies of Stradivarius violins available.

- Daniel Wright