What violin does Itzhak Perlman have?
Itzhak Perlman primarily plays the Soil Stradivarius violin of 1714, a renowned instrument from the "golden period" of Antonio Stradivari. Beyond this iconic instrument, he also performs with a Guarneri del Gesù from 1743 and a Carlo Bergonzi from 1740.
Itzhak Perlman's Distinguished Violin Collection
Acclaimed virtuoso Itzhak Perlman is celebrated for his masterful performances, often delivered on some of the world's most exceptional violins. While he is most frequently associated with a specific Stradivarius, his collection includes other historically significant instruments that contribute to his distinctive sound.
The Soil Stradivarius of 1714
The centerpiece of Perlman's instrument collection is the Soil Stradivarius from 1714. This violin is celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship and superior sound quality, characteristic of violins made during Antonio Stradivari's most productive and highly regarded period, often referred to as his "golden period." Its distinguished provenance includes previous ownership by the legendary violinist Yehudi Menuhin, further cementing its place in musical history. The Soil Stradivarius is widely considered one of the finest violins ever created.
Other Notable Violins
Beyond the iconic Stradivarius, Perlman also utilizes other remarkable instruments, each with its own unique characteristics and history:
- Guarneri del Gesù 1743 'Sauret': Crafted by Giuseppe Guarneri, another master luthier whose instruments are highly prized for their powerful and rich tone, this violin is known as the 'Sauret'. Guarneri violins are often preferred for their depth and darker timbre, providing a contrast to the brighter Stradivarius sound.
- Carlo Bergonzi 1740 'ex-Kreisler': Made by Carlo Bergonzi, a renowned luthier who was a contemporary and likely a student of Stradivari, this instrument is notable for its connection to the celebrated Austrian violinist Fritz Kreisler. Bergonzi instruments are highly regarded for their robust sound and excellent playability.
These instruments collectively represent the pinnacle of violin making, allowing Perlman to explore a vast range of tonal colors and expressiveness in his performances.
A Summary of Itzhak Perlman's Violins
Here is a quick overview of the prominent violins associated with Itzhak Perlman:
| Violin Name | Maker | Year | Notable Features / History |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soil Stradivarius | Antonio Stradivari | 1714 | Considered one of the finest violins from Stradivari's "golden period." Formerly owned by Yehudi Menuhin. |
| Guarneri del Gesù | Giuseppe Guarneri | 1743 | Known as the 'Sauret'. Instruments by Guarneri del Gesù are highly valued for their unique tonal qualities. |
| Carlo Bergonzi | Carlo Bergonzi | 1740 | Known as the 'ex-Kreisler', highlighting its past ownership by the famous violinist Fritz Kreisler. |
Itzhak Perlman's choice of instruments reflects his profound artistry and dedication to utilizing only the finest tools to bring classical music to life.
