The contribution of the British Isles to the history of the violin
family has been consistently under-estimated. For over 200 years
England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland have produced many fine
makers and an abundance of quality instruments and bows, now sought
after around the world. In addition London has for over 100 years
been an important centre for restoring, dealing in, collecting, and
exhibiting the finest products of Stradivari, Guarneri, and other
Italian masters - an important source of inspiration. Professor
Harvey explains in detail the history of violin-making in Britain,
from one of the earliest extant English instruments made of iron by
John Bunyan in about 1647, to the extensive British craft industry
of today, including within his book a comprehensive directory of
violin-and-bow-makers of the British Isles, with auction prices.
The book includes numerous high-quality colour and monochrome
illustrations, including samples of the work of the major craftsmen
involved. Throughout most of this history the scene has been
dominated by the Hill family, which for over 250 years has produced
instruments and bows of the highest quality, and their influence is
fully assessed. The book is also a social and economic history of
stringed instruments, showing how in England in particular the
violin was slow to win acceptance by association with gypsies and
the devil, and how the cello became the instrument favoured by
royalty and the aristocracy. The demand for instruments at any
particular time is gauged against musical activity in the country.
The book is the first in any language to deal with the vast and
fascinating subject in this way and in such depth. As such, it will
be welcomed by makers, dealers internationally, auction houses,
collectors, teachers, players, and students of stringed
instruments.
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