CREMONA VIOLINS: A PHYSICIST'S QUEST FOR THE SECRETS OF STRADIVARI (WITH DVD-ROM)

Cremona violins occupy a unique and storied place in violin history. This book contains a brief account of that history - the rise and fall of the Cremonese art of violin making that dominated over two centuries. It is primarily devoted, however, to the physics behind violin acoustics, specifically the research of William F "Jack" Fry over the past several decades. The gradual evolution of his ideas leading to a holistic approach is chronicled, in sharp contrast to the conventional "reductionist" analysis. With rare insights, he has come closer than anyone before in reproducing the tonal qualities of the great Italian masters. This historic achievement makes the book extremely valuable for violin makers and violin researchers, enabling young and aspiring violinists to own excellent sounding instruments with the acoustical marvels of the old at affordable prices.

The accompanying video features Fry's demonstration of how and why minute changes in thickness graduations make predictable changes in tonal qualities of an instrument.

I read it with great interest and enjoyment. It is a fascinating story and exceptionally well-written ... The CD was an excellent addition and brings out very well the points that Jack makes (through you) in the book. It was also very nice to see in action the people so important in the book. -- Professor Emeritus Laurie Brown "Northwestern University"

The book documents the magnitude of work which is demanded for such an undertaking and writing also grasps the joy he must have had by writing it ... I can recommend it without reservation, not only to those who are involved with violins but also for the flock of classical music lovers. -- Professor Frederick Marvin "Concert Pianist and Musicologist"

It offers the reader a lively history of the rise, fall and resurrection of the great Cremona violins ... I am happy that you endeavored to bring to light such a long and preserving research, in writing such an interesting book. -- Etienne Eisenmann "Etienne Eisenmann"