Book: Investigations of Classic Violin Family Instruments: Thickness Graduations and other Critical Parameters

National Music Museum

$295.00
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This 364-page hardback book depicts color-contour graduation maps of 315 instruments (252 violins, 32 violas, 22 cellos, one bass, six fractional instruments, and two viols) made between 1559 and 2008 by 108 makers from 11 countries. More than 48,000 graduation measurements are shown. Also presented are details on dimensions, plate structure, symmetry, evenness, rib thickness, arching height and character, ff-hole spacings, repairs, and instrument weights.

Measurements are summarized statistically and data are displayed in dozens of graphs and charts. This huge database will help answer hundreds of questions about great instruments and provide a reliable basis for violin, viola, and cello making.

The NMM is among the major museum collections represented in the book, alongside the Smithsonian Institution, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Library of Congress, Chi Mei Museum, Musée de la Musique, and Royal Academy of Music.

Among the NMM instruments featured are examples by some of the most important makers in the history of the violin family, including Antonio Stradivari, members of the Amati family, Jacob Stainer, and members of the Guarneri family, along with instruments by other significant European makers.

Binding: Hardcover
Author: Jeffrey S. Loen
Pages: 364
Published: September 2026

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