1726 Stradivari Violin - Australian Chamber Orchestra

Key Information

Maker:	Antonio Stradivari
Origin:	Cremona, Italy
Made:	1726
Current Player:	Satu Vänskä
Sound Notes:	Soloistic with an even brilliance and a wide tonal range
Owner:	Guido and Michelle Belgiorno-Nettis
Date Acquired:	Undisclosed
Date Loaned to ACO:	2018

ABOUT THE INSTRUMENT

Known as the 'Belgiorno' Stradivarius, as it was purchased by ACO Chairman Guido Belgiorno-Nettis AM and Michelle Belgiorno-Nettis for long-term loan to the ACO, this violin is regarded as one of the most remarkable instruments in existence and bears the key trademarks of the 'Golden Age' violins with its beautifully flamed maple back and rose varnish.

The violin was made during the later years of Stradivari’s life and is a pinnacle example of the celebrated craftsman’s work. It was formerly owned by Dr Reginald Hilton, a distinguished physician and amateur violinist.

ABOUT THE MAKER

Antonio Stradivari (1644 - 1737) is widely acknowledged as the greatest violin maker of all time. Stradivari’s instruments exhibit a unique blend of tonal excellence, design, beauty to the eye, and accuracy of workmanship. Many of the world’s great violinists have played instruments by Stradivari, including Jascha Heifetz, Yehudi Menuhin, Anne-Sophie Mutter and Itzhak Perlman.