New England Conservatory to Auction $18M Stradivarius for Student Aid
A precious 1714 Joachim-Ma Stradivarius violin, valued at up to $18 million, will be sold at Sotheby’s New York this February. The New England Conservatory is selling it to grow their student scholarship fund.
The sale could break existing records. The current record is $15.9 million, set by another Stradivarius in 2011. Experts think this instrument could sell for between $12 million and $18 million at auction.
“This extraordinary instrument was given to New England Conservatory with the provision that it could be sold to support student scholarships. After years of individual use by our students, now, we can establish the largest named student scholarship program in the history of NEC, honoring our mission to educate and train the next generation of musicians,” said Andrea Kalyn, New England Conservatory President, in a statement on their website.
The violin has an amazing musical history. In the 1800s, famous violinist Joseph Joachim played it first during Brahms’ Violin Concerto. Later, Si-Hon Ma owned it before giving it to the school in 2009.
Before the New York auction, the violin will go on tour. People in London and Hong Kong can see it during special events. The final sale happens during Masters Week, along with other valuable art pieces.
Antonio Stradivari made this violin in his workshop in 1714. Musicians love these special instruments for their incredible sound and expert craftsmanship.
Money for school is a big concern for students picking music schools. This sale will help talented young musicians who need financial help to follow their dreams.
Though the violin won’t make music anymore, its new role continues its legacy. Through scholarships, it will help create music for years to come.
