The Violin Chronicles Podcast

By: Linda Lespets
  • Summary

  • In this podcast I will be telling the wild and wonderful stories englobing the lives of famous violin makers, what they got up to and placing them in their historical and musical context. We will look at instrument makers such as Gasparo da Salo, the Amati family, Guarneri Del Gesu and Stradivari just to name a few. Who were these people? What were their lives like? What was Stradivaris secret? and most importantly why and how did they make these master pieces we see and revere today. What was the first ballet like that Andrea Amati’s instruments played in, costing millions? Why did Antonio Stradivari have a shotgun wedding? and did Guarneri del Gesu really go to prison for murder? I speak to historians, musicians, violin makers and experts to unveil the stories of these beautiful violins, violas, cellos, double basses and the people who made them.
    Copyright 2022 All rights reserved.
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Episodes
  • Ep. 33 Giuseppe Guarneri Filius Andrea Part 2
    Jan 28 2025

    Hello! In this second episode we will continue to delve into the life of violin maker Giuseppe Filius Andrea Guarneri. And I am Joined by Dr. Alan Maddox from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, as we explore the musical landscape of the late 17th century, focusing on the trio sonata and its impact on violin making (because yes it does have an impact!). Come and join me as I take a look at Giuseppe's life, his growing family, and his inheritance complications after the death of his father, Andrea Guarneri. Discover with me why the development of printed music influenced so many musicians at the time of Giuseppe Guarneri Filius Andrea, and we take a sneak peak at the lifestyles of virtuoso performers, and the intricate connections between different musical styles in different parts of Europe at this time because it will ultimately help us to understand these violin makers so much more. And finally we unveil how these historical musicians and their innovations continue to affect our understanding of music and instrument making today. Now if you would like to join me for these episodes on Giuseppe Guarneri Filius Andrea pleas go to Patreon.com/thevioinchronicles where you will have access to these exclusive episodes and a whole bunch more, I hope to see you there.

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    2 mins
  • Giuseppe Guarneri or Filius Andrea
    Jan 22 2025

    In this episode of 'The Violin Chronicles,' Linda Lespets takes listeners through the life of Giuseppe Guarneri, also known as Filius Andrea, a seminal violin maker from Cremona in the 17th century. The discussion begins with the significance of understanding Giuseppe to fully appreciate his more famous son, Guarneri del Gesù. Giuseppe's We look at his early life, his family dynamics, and the socio-economic environment of Cremona, while spotlighting the intricacies of his violin-making career. Through the lens of historical events and familial relationships, listeners learn about Giuseppe's craftsmanship, his rivalry with contemporary luthiers like Stradivari, and his contributions to cello design. This episode provides a comprehensive look at how his work and legacy intertwined with that of his distinguished family. Join Linda on Patreon.com/theviolinchronicles for exclusive content and insights into the lives of other great violin makers.

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    2 mins
  • Ep 31. Pietro Guarneri of Mantua part 4
    Nov 10 2024

    Here we are! The final chapter in the life of Pietro Guarneri of Mantua, a distinguished violin maker, and his experiences during a turbulent period in history. Pietro's mother-in-law joins their household in 1700. Pietro's style of violin making has evolved substantially, reflecting the broader and bolder designs of his instruments.

    However, family tensions arise as his brother Giuseppe fails to pay Pietro his share of their father's inheritance, eventually resolving the dispute after several years. Meanwhile, historical events significantly impact Pietro’s life. The death of the King of Spain in 1700 sparks the War of Spanish Succession, embroiling Mantua in conflict as the French and Austrians vie for control over northern Italian territories.

    This period sees devastating consequences for Pietro's family, including the death of his daughter Eleonora and the chronic instability caused by shifting political powers. Despite these challenges, Pietro continues his craft, even as the Austrians eventually claim Mantua what will happen to our violin maker Pietro Guarneri?

    Personal tragedies persist with the death of more children, but Pietro forges on, making exquisite instruments until his death in 1720.

    Mantua is transforming how will the art of the violin makers survive this upheaval?

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    35 mins

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