Eric BenningA History of Violins in Rock & RollMore than the guitar strings can make us rock. Violinists including John Creach, Richard Sanders, Robby Steinhardt, and David Lindley…Dec 22, 2023Dec 22, 2023
Eric BenningThe Violins of Isaac SternAmong the greatest of 20th century virtuosos, Stern left behind great violins and bows. His estate may have bungled it a bit, but the…Dec 16, 2023Dec 16, 2023
Eric BenningSears Roebuck and the ViolinAlmost everything was sold via the Sears “Wish Books” of the 20th century. Worth noting is inexpensive instruments that have long been…Dec 16, 2023Dec 16, 2023
Eric BenningThe Primrose International Viola CompetitionRelegated to the alto voice in most compositions, the viola has risen to greater prominence thanks to William Primrose and those who aspire…Oct 30, 2023Oct 30, 2023
Eric BenningThe Beginnings of the Cello EndpinThe parts of the cello start at the floor. But the endpin wasn’t always part of the instrument, and the physicality of that changed music…Oct 30, 2023Oct 30, 2023
Eric BenningThe Interesting History of the PochetteA scaled down version of the violin, the pochette was devised for traveling and impromptu performances. And, it helped Scots become…Jul 28, 2023Jul 28, 2023
Eric BenningThe Gagliano Family of ViolinmakersThe violins of Cremona and Venice might have the most storied histories, but the Neopolitan Gagliano family instruments have stood the test…Jul 27, 2023Jul 27, 2023
Eric BenningThe Füssen School of Violin MakingWhile the Museum of Füssen commemorates its luthier-populated past, much of the violinmaking influence of this Bavarian town ultimately…Jun 23, 2023Jun 23, 2023
Eric BenningThe Stradivarius Instruments of The Met MuseumNew York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art has several Strads that are played occasionally. But should rare instruments be mostly seen and…Jun 23, 2023Jun 23, 2023
Eric BenningItalian Violinmaking: The Amati FamilyStradivari is known for the greatest violins, but the likely inventor of the modern violin was Andreas Amati. French royalty deserves some…May 31, 2023May 31, 2023