Are you a fan of the violin? If so, then you’re in luck. We’ve put together a list of the 10 best documentaries about the violin from around the world. From exploring how it’s made to highlighting its vast history, this selection is sure to delight and inspire even the most passionate fans of classical music. So read on for some must-see documentaries featuring the violin!
1. The Art of Violin – Great Violinists of the 20th Century
If you’re a fan of classical music, then this is the documentary for you! With an exclusive look at some of the greatest violinists of the twentieth century, The Art of Violin – Great Violinists of the 20th Century gives viewers insight into the lives and works of such renowned maestros as Jascha Heifetz, David Oistrakh, and Yehudi Menuhin.
2. Cremona – The Italian City of Violins
The town of Cremona, Italy is a mecca for violin makers. From the families of Amati, Guarneri, and Stradivari to the composer Monteverdi, this ancient Lombardia town has been a source of inspiration throughout history. Home to masterful artisans and musicians who have crafted some of the world’s most renowned instruments, Cremona is a place of musical wonder.
3. Violin Makers
From the family of Count Cozio di Salabue to the legendary craftsmen of Giuseppe Fiorini, Italy holds an unparalleled legacy in making and selling bowed instruments. Exploring this rich history requires delving into the stories of some of its leading makers, as well as looking at the instruments found in major Italian collections.
4. The Craftsmanship of Violin-Making at Cremona
Since the 16th century, Cremona has been a hotbed for traditional violinmaking. It is here that passionate artisans continue to maintain the cultural heritage of their craft. From prestigious institutions like the International Violinmaking School and University of Pavia, to over 150 workshops and 250 dedicated violinmakers – all have contributed to preserving this time-honored practice for future generations to appreciate.
5. History of the Violin with Simon Kodurand
For centuries, the violin has been a centerpiece of classical and modern music. For those passionate about its history, Simon Kodurand’s documentary “History of the Violin” is an absolute must-watch. The film provides viewers with a comprehensive exploration into the evolution of the instrument: from its inception during the Renaissance period to its widespread use in today’s popular culture.
6.The Secret Of The Violin
Violin music is something special. It has a mysterious and alluring quality that can move people to tears, joy and beyond. A lot of us have been touched by the sound of the violin in some way or another, either through our own playing or through listening to it played in movies, on stage or even just being around those who are passionate about it.
7. Documentary about violin making
Ivan Hus (1898 – 1992) was an internationally renowned Croatian violin maker. During WWI, he served in the Austro-Hungarian Army before journeying to Germany and learning the art of violin making at one of many factories across Markneukirchen. In 1922, Hus returned to Zagreb where he began performing as a violinist and crafting mandolins and tamburitzas.
8. CHEAP vs EXPENSIVE violins – Can you hear the difference?
Do you know the difference between a CHEAP violin and an EXPENSIVE one? Have you ever wondered how much of an impact your instrument choice makes on the overall sound quality? The Best Documentaries About Violin aims to answer these burning questions, through interviews with renowned teachers, musicians and experts from all over the world.
9. Why Was Violin Making The Worst Stuart Era Job?
Tony Robinson takes a look at some of the most revolting jobs during the Stuart era, including saltpetre men who collected human waste to obtain potassium nitrate as an ingredient for gunpowder. Furthermore, he examines the profession of petardier’s assistant, whose job was to blow open the gates of besieged castles.
10. Violin making process explained
The world of violin making is a fascinating and alluring one. If you want to gain an insight into the intricate process of crafting a violin – or other stringed instrument – then taking time out to watch one of these top 10 documentaries is essential.
