Musings from the workbench of violin maker Andy Fein on makers, instruments, bows, musicians, and the joys of a life in the world of stringed instruments.
Cameo appearances by the musicians on staff at Fein Violins.
By Andy Fein, Violin Maker and Owner, Fein Violins
In our shop, we're often asked "What's the best sounding cello?" Everyone wants the best sound, of course. Every player wants to have great tone, great projection, and fast response. Who wouldn't??? But..... (and there's always a but) I think two words have been left out of that question. The question really should be "What's the best sounding cello FOR ME?" Or, my child, friend, spouse, etc.
The wonderful cellist Myung-Wha Chung plays on what I consider to be one of the best (if not THE BEST!) sounding cellos I've ever heard, the 1731 'Braga' Stradivarius cello. I've also had the opportunity to study this cello in depth.
In our shop, we're often asked "What's the best sounding violin?" Everyone wants the best sound, of course. Every player wants to have great tone, great projection, and fast response. Who wouldn't??? But..... (and there's always a but) I think two words have been left out of that question. The question really should be "What's the best sounding violin FOR ME?" Or, my child, friend, spouse, etc.
Listen to great violinist Rachel Barton Pine discuss the tonal differences between Stradivaris and Guarneri del Gesus.
By Andy Fein, luthier and Fein Violins
and Miranda Crawford, Fein Violins
I recently saw a quick social media post that showed a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame with the name of the great violist William Primrose.
Really? A classical musician with their own star. And a violist, no less! I thought the stars were all reserved for glamorous movie stars. Most of them are, but there are stars for some great string players, conductors, and composers. What would the movies be like without great music to go with them?
