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Violin labelled 'The Maidstone', Saxony, circa 1920
About Maidstone violins
The history of the Maidstone violin company is a very interesting one! Driven by a desire to improve musical education, the London firm John G. Murdoch & Co. started importing student violins from Saxony and Bohemia in 1898. The company provided the violin, teaching materials and instruction, all rolled into an accessible price.
At its height, 400,000 British school children, or one in every ten of the state school population, participated in the Maidstone School Orchestra programme. The Maidstone Movement is seen as a precursor to the American system of group instrumental classes in public schools.
The violins imported for this endeavour were produced to be affordable and reliable musical companions for young learners: it is testament to the vision of the Murdoch firm that many of them are still in active service today!
About the violin
This violin was made in Saxony circa 1920 and is modelled after the instruments of Stradivari.
The violin has a two piece back of quarter sawn maple with ribs and scroll to match. The front is two pieces of finely-grained spruce and the varnish is reddish-brown in colour.
The violin has a length of back of 314 mm.
How does it sound?
This is a cheerful sounding instrument which provides a greater range of tonal colours and expression than most half size violins!
Condition
The violin is in good condition.
Further information
Please get in touch for more details about this antique half size violin made in Germany for sale and a member of our team will get back to you.