February-2009
We examine the 1715 ‘Titian’ Stradivari using the latest technological methods, celebrate the 200th anniversary of Mendelssohn’s birth and investigate the history of the Cretan lyra. Plus, a report from the VSA Competition, advice on commissioning instruments and an interview with the Paris-based Calvet Quartet.
January-2009
Janácek String Quartets
An A-Z of Instrument Care by Jane Dorner (2nd Edition)
Alfred Dubois and Marcel Maas
Alfred Dubois was one of the stars of the Franco-Belgian school of violinists. A pupil of Ysaÿe and best known today as Arthur Grumiaux’s teacher, he was also a soloist in his own right, as his fine records testify. These 1930s sonatas, recorded with his regular accompanist Marcel Maas, show his inimitable artistry and sonorous tone. A must for anyone interested in historic violin playing.
Over 68 minutes.
Brahms Violin Sonatas
Vladimir Ashkenazy wrote: 'Simon Fischer is a thoroughly accomplished violinist, a wonderful musician'. This CD introduces Simon Fischer's playing to people who have known him purely as one of the leading violin teachers in the world.
Simon Fischer plays:
Scherzo from 'F.A.E' Sonata (Sonatensatz)
Sonata No. 1 in G, op. 78
Sonata No. 2 in A, op. 100
Sonata No. 3 in D minor, op. 108
Rubbra Violin Concerto: Krysia Osostowicz
Krysia Osostowicz is on mesmerising form and wonderfully supported by Takuo Yuasa and the Ulster Orchestra. The recording’s alluring, autumnal glow fits the music like a glove. The disc opens with the violin Improvisation in which Osostowicz is the passionate pilgrim. This is followed by the Violin Concerto, which has the same dark concentration as the Improvisation.
The Strad Calendar 2017
The Strad's 2017 calendar pays tribute to the conservatoires, music schools and academies that provide the backbone and ensure the future of the great classical music tradition. Twelve instruments, including examples by Antonio Stradivari, the Brothers Amati and Pietro Guarneri of Mantua are featured, along with some surprises – such as a 19th-century church bass by American luthier Abraham Prescott. This calendar will be essential for students, teachers and anyone with an interest in beautiful stringed instruments.
Full list of featured instruments
- 1629 Brothers Amati violin
- 1679 Nicolò Amati violin
- 1685 Antonio Stradivari violino piccolo
- 1700 Antonio Stradivari ‘Stauffer’ cello
- 1709 Antonio Stradivari ‘Hochschule Berlin, Marteau’ violin
- 1709 Antonio Stradivari ‘Viotti, ex-Bruce’ violin
- 1714 Antonio Stradivari ‘Joachim–Ma’ violin
- 1714 Pietro Guarneri of Mantua violin
- 1716 Antonio Stradivari ‘Provigny’ violin
- 1726 Antonio Stradivari ‘Marquis de Corboron’ cello
- 1736 Antonio Stradivari ‘Belle Skinner’ violin
- c.1809–20 Abraham Prescott church bass
Violin Heroes
Nine of today's top violinists, including Itzhak Perlman, Joshua Bell, Anne-Sophie Mutter, Maxim Vengerov and Nikolaj Znaider, talk about the players who have most influenced them. Plus, articles from The Strad’s archive give an insight into the greatest players of the last century, including Heifetz, Menuhin, Kreisler and Ysaÿe.
