Last week (3 April) saw an unprecedented celebration of classical music and artisan craftsmanship in central London.
Hosted by Sanlorenzo Yachts UK and Howden Private Clients at the Minotti London showroom, the evening brought together a distinguished audience for a rare and extraordinary performance.
A truly priceless musical interlude unfolded as two remarkable Stradivarius violins, in the hands of the world-renowned violinists Tomo Keller and Andrew Bernardi, played together for the first time.
Crafted over three centuries ago by the legendary Italian luthier Antonio Stradivari, these historic instruments – though visually distinct – demonstrated their unparalleled ability to project with power and clarity, commanding attention to be heard above the force of a full orchestra.
Set against Minotti’s exquisitely curated backdrop on Margaret Street, the intimate gathering was immersed in the exceptional tonal nuances and dynamic range that define these rare musical masterpieces.
Nick Hatfield, Managing Director at Sanlorenzo Yachts UK, reflected on the profound connection between Stradivari’s craftsmanship and Sanlorenzo’s legacy of yacht building:
“For over 60 years, Sanlorenzo has exemplified the finest Italian craftsmanship in luxury yacht building. Just as every Sanlorenzo yacht is a singular work of art, with its own story to tell, each Stradivarius violin is uniquely crafted, with a sound and character as distinctive as the instrument itself.”
With only 650 Stradivarius violins believed to exist today, these instruments are among the rarest in the world. Their preservation is paramount, yet their true essence is realised only through performance.
Charlie Jenkins, Head of Asset Finance at SPF Private Clients, Part of Howden, emphasised the delicate balance between preservation and use:
“Instruments of this calibre must not only be safeguarded – they should be played. The relationship between violin and violinist is symbiotic: the more an instrument is played, the more it develops its voice, enriching both its sound and the artist’s interpretation of the music.”
Despite their historical and artistic significance, Stradivarius violins remain financially out of reach for many of the world’s most gifted musicians. It is only through philanthropy and dedicated patronage that these rare instruments continue to grace the global stage – a challenge Howden is committed to addressing.
Jenkins unveiled a vision close to the heart of Howden as the leading insurance broker for fine instruments:
“We understand the profound impact that an instrument can have on a musician’s career. Our vision is to ensure that exceptional violins, like those played by Tomo and Andrew, are brought out of storage and placed in the hands of talented artists. Achieving this goal will require the support of philanthropists and investors, and we are confident that Howden, given our market position, can lead this initiative. Our aim is to ensure these instruments continue to inspire and transform the lives of the finest musicians of their generation.”
The evening at Minotti was more than a performance – it was a testament to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship, and the importance of preserving musical and artistic excellence for generations to come.