Made in 1714 by Antonio Stradivari During its famous “Golden Period,” this important violin was offered by the New England Conservatory (NEC), with all proceeds going to student scholarships. With an estimated value of $12-18 million, this New York sale offers a rare opportunity to acquire one of the world’s finest violins, while directly supporting the next generation of musicians. The Joachim-Ma Stradivarius, with its timeless beauty and extraordinary legacy, not only transcends its storied past, but also creates a living link to history, inspiring the future of classical music.
The Joachim-Ma Stradivarius is the embodiment of over three centuries of musical history.
Renowned for its extraordinary sound and exquisite beauty, the violin It is part of Stradivari's "golden age", widely regarded as the pinnacle of his craftsmanship and acoustic mastery. While the instrument's rich golden brown varnish adds to its visual appeal, it is the violin's extraordinary overall preservation that truly stands out, a testament to the care and reverence it has received over the centuries, ensuring the persistence of its historical and musical legacy.
What distinguishes the Joachim-Ma Stradivari is its exceptional sound: rich, complex and full of depth.
The tone is sweet and rounded, with a richness that seems to grow with each note. There is a warmth to the sound, with an underlying depth that gives it a unique character, making it one of a kind. The sound of the violin is not only heard but also felt as a voice, revealing subtle nuances and offering a timeless, expressive quality in every phrase. It is no wonder that it is known as one of the great violins and for centuries musicians of the highest calibre have sought it out.
The Joachim-Ma Stradivarius carries with it a legacy enriched by its owners and musicians.
Before it was donated to the NEC, where it inspired students, it belonged to the late Si-Hon Ma, a violinist and pedagogue who graduated with an artist's degree from the NEC in the 50s. It was donated to the school with the understanding that it might one day be sold to provide scholarships to students.
The violin was previously owned by Joseph Joachim, one of the most influential violinists of the 19th century, whose collaborations with composers such as Johannes Brahms shaped the course of classical music.
music. Joachim almost certainly performed on this instrument during the premiere in 1879
of Brahms's Violin Concerto in D major op. 77, conducted by the composer himself. The tone of the Joachim-Ma Stradivarius is believed to have profoundly influenced Brahms as he composed
the monumental work.
Antonio Stradivari's instruments are prized for their unparalleled craftsmanship and are among the most prized in the world, with prices often reaching into the millions.
Stradivari violins are over 300 years old and require meticulous maintenance to maintain their sound quality. The Joachim-Ma Stradivari is a rare gem: its unparalleled beauty and direct sound are linked to musical history and artistic greatness.
