| Do we know Stradivari's secrets yet?? (Boulder, CO) June 7, 2005 - 3.0/5... |
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Stradivari's Genius: Five Violins, One Cello, and Three Centuries of Enduring Perfection Toby Faber 
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars Rank: 35679 (Boulder, CO) June 7, 2005 - 3.0/5 stars Some will be curious to see if Toby Faber has any new or definitive revelations as to just what exactly were the deep secrets of Antonio Stradivari. While he doesn't quite completely reveal the mysteries of Stadivari, author Faber does present the two most probably technical hypothesis in the very last chapter as to what exactly was responsible for producing the legenday Stradivari tone and power. Hint: one has to do with a pretreatment of the wood and the other what appears to be a unique "base coat" applied prior to that famous red varnish. But, you'll have to read it to find out exactly what. This book follows the paths of five Stradivarius instruments throughout history - from the 18th century workshop in Cremona through the 19th and 20th century's wars, virtuosos, concerts, and tradings to the present musicians who play them now. Highlights for me were the chapter on Paganini (who collected many Strads but favored his mighty 'des Gesus') and the later chapter recalling how the famous 'Davidov' cello found its way into the hands of (the late) Jacqueline du Pres and then later, Yo Yo Ma. And my favorite was the final chapter on how Baroque craftsmanship still continues to elude and trump science's attempts to characterize and reproduce Stradivari's magic ... so Antonio's secrets will remain, which is probably just as well. This book will most likely appeal to the more "serious" classical fan or violin enthusiast but maybe less to the "less serious" classical listener. The writing style to me was sometimes not engaging enough to pull an average reader (like me) into these historic settings and dealings. A mainstream press reviewer from 'The Week' did not rate it very highly saying it is sometimes hard to stay interested through all the "wonky collector talk." But, to those really into the subject, it probably will be a fascinating story to follow as there are some really interesting tidbits and stories about Stradivari and these instruments ... like the fact that there are a only a rare few violas from Stradivari to the reality of how great instruments like these can and do wear out with time (and LOSE value) to how most top professionals still prefer 17th/18th century violins as compared to modern ones - all at least according to the author. There is a reason these precious stringed instruments remain so mysterious and coveted and Toby Fabor seeks to tell that story through the history of these five instruments.
Customer Review: 4 of 4
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Editorials(5) | Product Info | Product Listings Customer ReviewsStradivari's Genius: Five Violins, One Cello, and Three Centuries of Enduring Perfection Toby Faber Customer Review
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