Tradition in a Modern World

Deathiversary of Antonio Stradivari

275 years ago, the greatest known violin maker died. We have no record of Antonio Stradivari’s birth, so let’s celebrate his life by honoring his death. He was born in a time when music was changing and the violin was taking on a new role within the group. It was once relegated to accompanying music, then after the Renaissance it was called to a melodic, soloing role. Up steps a violin maker from relatively unknown origins.

Cremona, Italy lives in the tomes of violin makers. Generations of makers lived there before Stradivari came along. Based on the age that was put on his labels, it is accepted that he was born in 1644. For a little historical perspective, this is after many perished when the plague ravaged Europe. 

When Stradivari made his first violins in about 1660, they were obviously influenced by the Amati family. About 1690 he morphed the forms and archings of his violins to create more sound. He had introduced a new model and this was courageous because the demand for the bigger concert hall sound didn’t come about until the mid 18th century. In 1704 he seemed to reach his optimal goal for sound as his instruments were extraordinarily brilliant with a full and powerful tone. 1704 to 1720 marks his “golden age” of making. My favorite instrument, the Soil, was made during this time in 1714. He made violins up until the mid 1730s. The instruments from his last years clearly show his declining strength and skill. His second wife died in March of 1737 and he was not long to follow. Antonio Stradivari, violin maker/pwner, died December 18th, 1737. He made an estimated 1100 instruments, sparked countless innovations in making, and lived to be about 94.