The Allemanda from Sonata No.4by Eugène Ysaÿe performed on the Rocca by Paul Arnold of the Philadelphia Orchestra Giuseppe Antonio (Joseph) Rocca (1807-1865) worked in both Turin and Genoa. His early career flourished while an apprentice with Giovanni Francesco Pressenda from 1834-38. Rocca was especially fascinated by the fine works of Stradivarius, Guarnerius and Maggini, and took great […]
Violin by Virgilio Cappellini Cremona, Italy, 1974. Length of Back: 355 mm – $10,000 A Stradivari model in excellent condition by a fine modern Italian maker. This violin has a bright, bold tone suitable to large concert halls and lends itself easily to solo playing. Violin by Albert Deblaye Paris, 1924. Length of Back: 359
As many of you who have visited us know, Frederick W. Oster Violins occupies a very unique building in Center City, Philadelphia. As a result, we are often asked about the history of the house and its former tenants. We’ve compiled the history of the building as we know it for all who are interested in learning more about
Occasionally an instrument comes to us after an accident of some sort and, not unlike surgeons, it’s our workshop’s job to bring it back to good health. The work is meticulous and requires a clear path of action, flexibility and good judgment, and a great deal of patience. A good restorer is often also an artist and an inventor, channeling the style of the maker
