- A centuries-old Stradivarius violin, valued between $12 million and $18 million, is set to be auctioned on Friday. The instrument, crafted in 1714 by legendary Italian luthier Antonio Stradivari, could become the most expensive musical instrument ever sold.
- This particular Stradivarius, known as the “Joachim-Ma,” was once owned by 19th-century violinist Joseph Joachim and later donated to the New England Conservatory in Boston.
- Proceeds from the auction will support scholarships at the New England Conservatory, with bidding beginning at 11:15 a.m. Eastern.
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A centuries-old Stradivarius violin is expected to make history. The instrument, valued between $12 million and $18 million, is set to be auctioned on Friday, Feb. 7.
The violin, crafted in 1714 by legendary Italian luthier Antonio Stradivari, is from his renowned “Golden Period.” Sotheby’s will present the auction, and if bidding reaches its high estimate, it could become the most expensive musical instrument ever sold.
Stradivari made approximately 1,100 instruments between the late 1600s and early 1700s. Only about 600 Stradivarius violins remain today. They are revered for their craftsmanship and distinct sound.
A violin with a historic past
This particular Stradivarius, known as the “Joachim-Ma,” was once owned by 19th-century violinist Joseph Joachim, famous for his interpretations of Mozart and Beethoven. It was later acquired by violinist Si-Hon Ma, who donated it to the New England Conservatory in Boston before his passing in 2009.
For those who have played or even heard a Stradivarius, often called a “Strad,” the sound is described as unmatched.
The debate: Old vs. new violins
Renowned violinist Joshua Bell told NPR that the unique tonal quality of a Stradivarius is difficult to replicate.
“It’s the overtones and the way, once you get to know the instrument, you can find these tonal varieties that are very difficult to find in a modern instrument,” Bell said.
However, a 2013 study put that belief to the test. Researchers had violinists blindly compare six old Stradivarius violins against six modern ones. The results showed that musicians actually rated newer violins higher for playability, articulation and projection. They also struggled to distinguish the older instruments from the modern ones.
A record-breaking auction?
If the violin sells for its projected value, it will surpass the current record set in 2011. That year, a Stradivarius sold for $15.9 million and earned a Guinness World Record for the most expensive instrument sold at auction. Proceeds from that sale supported Japan’s tsunami relief efforts, following a devastating earthquake and tsunami.
Despite debates over sound quality, Stradivarius violins remain highly sought after. Their historical significance and careful preservation make them among the most valuable instruments in the world.
Proceeds from this auction will support scholarships at the New England Conservatory. Bidding begins Friday at 11:15 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.
