Stradivarius 1714 Violin “Dolphin”

Dear Nippon Music Foundation, I am deeply grateful for the extraordinary opportunity to have played on some of the world’s finest Stradivarius violins through your generous instrument loan program. Since winning the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 2009, my journey with these instruments has been nothing short of transformative.

Each violin has been a teacher in its own right, revealing different nuances of sound and expression. From the 1708 Huggins, which I recorded my "Virtuoso" album on, to the 1714 Dolphin, which has accompanied me most recently, I have learned that a great instrument is more than just an exceptional tool—it is a partner in music-making, one that shapes the performer just as much as the performer shapes the instrument.

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the true meaning of a great sound. Stradivarius violins, in my experience, carry a resonance that has been sculpted over centuries of playing, like a natural EQ that enhances and refines their voices. This is what makes them so special—the way they respond, the way they bloom under the bow, and the way they reveal endless possibilities for expression.

Beyond the sound, it has been an incredible experience getting to know the individual personalities of each instrument. Some, like the 1715 Joachim, were all-rounders that felt reliable in any repertoire, while others, like the 1714 Dolphin, had a brilliance and power that could fill any hall. Each violin shaped my playing in different ways, pushing me to adapt, explore, and ultimately grow as a musician.

To any young musician considering applying for an instrument loan, I cannot recommend it enough. The chance to play on a great instrument will change your playing, your sound, and perhaps even your understanding of music itself. The Nippon Music Foundation’s dedication to preserving these masterpieces and making them available to musicians is an incredible gift to the music world.

As my time with the Dolphin Stradivarius comes to an end this April, I reflect on this journey with immense gratitude. Thank you for everything you do to support musicians and keep these instruments alive for future generations.

March 2025