The “Ysaÿe” del Gesù is one of the most important instruments in the world- both because of the illustrious line of players who gave it voice, but also for its exceptional tone. I find the experience of playing this violin unique because the immediate sound under the ear is beautiful and rich enough to be encouraging (sometimes, instruments can sound breathtakingly lovely under the ear but dull and hushed from the audience) but the bloom of the sound in the audience is unparalleled. The violin absorbs as much or as little effort as I desire and amplifies it. The tonal possibilities feel endless with this violin and I look forward to many years of discovery with it.
(Published in the September 2022 Issue of ONGAKU NO TOMO)
