Product Description
This is the remarkable tale of Antonio Stradivari, the greatest instrument maker of all time, and what happened to the violins he created. Everyone has some idea of the legendary quality and unbelievable price tag of a Stradivarius violin, but much of the life of this genius remains obscure; his motivations and techniques hitherto unexplored. In this, the first popular account of the Stradivari phenomena, Toby Faber explores the life and methods of this unsurpassed craftsman. Following the life of his instruments as they pass through the hands of many of the greatest musicians that have ever lived, we learn how and why they have become objects of such veneration and desire. Its a dramatic tale of grand artistry, fantastic music, shady dealers, forgery and science.
From the Publisher
"Toby Fabers engaging new book on Antonio Stradivari traces the history of a handful of his instrumentstheir biographies, who played them, where they wentand through it we learn a lot about how violins are made and the music world. Its fascinating, accessible, and enjoyable reading."
Tracy Chevalier, author of Girl with a Pearl Earring
"A captivating book that follows the trail of six of Stradivaris creations. Like strange totems that cast an irresistible spell, these instruments bring out the best and the worst of those who would own them, and Faber deftly tells the stories in all their rich and surprising detail. Avarice and intrigue compete with generosity and love of music in a drama that Faber brings alive at every turn. An extraordinary accomplishment and a compelling read."
Thad Carhart, author of The Piano Shop on the Left Bank
"Faber's fresh narrative style will appeal to many readers, specialists included . . . It is full of interesting facts and anecdotes." Guardian
"an inspired idea for a book. Because these instruments and their players have reputations that have endured, Faber has been able to find fine tales that hang on each of them." Daily Telegraph
"Faber is chatty, user-friendly, eagerly non-elitist, and minimising of sources, yet his passion for his subject, his painstaking research, his faith in the integrity of musicianship and craftsmanship lift this book above gossip for the string-playing classes." Financial Times
"more enthralling, earthy and illuminating than any fiction could possibly be . . . Peppered with anecdotes, fascinating detail and a dry English wit Peppered with anecdotes, fascinating detail and a dry English wit" New York Times
"[Toby Faber] brings to the subject an infectious fascination with Stradivari's life and trade" - Chicago Tribune