Back in January, I paid a visit to the Stradivari House to inquire about having both my viola and my Grandpa’s violin appraised, with a view to possibly having them repaired, as necessary, and sold. I had no idea what to expect, but I had a blast chatting with Aquiles about instruments, and especially the history of my Grandpa’s violin. It’s an Ernst Heinrich Roth made in 1936, and Grandpa got it through the Montgomery Wards Catalog. I mistakenly thought that meant it was cheap/super basic, but I should have known Grandpa wouldn’t waste his money on something that wasn’t quality. Both instruments do need some work done, but I don’t think it will be difficult to sell them. I don’t know when he will be able to get to my instruments – he’s a very busy guy – but I can tell from talking to him that he will do a great job.
Here’s a quick pic I took inside his shop:
I feel like maybe I should be sadder than I am at the thought of saying farewell to Wilhelm the Viola, but I have long ago reconciled myself to the fact that my viola days are behind me. They were wonderful while they lasted and I have so many fabulous memories of my orchestra and ensemble days, both the experiences of traveling, going to Europe, playing gigs all over the tri-state area, and the talented musicians with whom I got to make music. And, I never tire of noting, as I drive around town with a van full of kids with my Sirius XM Classical station playing, whenever a familiar piece comes on: “I played that!” – and then proceeding to air-viola at every stoplight. The music will remain with me forever, in my fingers and in my soul.
