The 1709 “Engleman” Stradivarius is a powerful violin that possesses aggressive almost dragon-like sound qualities, especially in its lower strings. The size of the violin itself is larger than most Stradivarius' of its time which naturally allows the sound to resonate through more wood which ultimately produces more sound. Over the time that I've played this instrument, I've understood that its natural tendencies are to have a dark and full tone which is especially beneficial when playing music with depth such as Tchaikovsky and Brahms. The lowest string is temperamental which allows the emotion of rage to be used while playing music that requires this. The G-string growls and has a huge resonance–much like a baritone singer. Playing this instrument has opened up a new channel of maturity in my approach to sound. Beyond a beautiful and sweet sound that I have historically depended on, I am discovering to channel my own view of the range of emotions that this violin can draw out of me. In the few weeks that I've played on this instrument, I can tell that it has allowed me to discover the darker sides of the sound spectrum.
(Published in the September 2022 Issue of ONGAKU NO TOMO)
