The Great Violinists

Book excerpt: This carefully researched and definitive book recreates the magic of the greatest violinists in history. In three centuries, the solo performer progressed from downtrodden private servant to revered public idol. The supreme artists Corelli, Vivaldi, Viotti, Paganini, Vieuxtemps, Joachim and Auer were pivotal figures in the history of violin playing, while more recent times have seen Sarasate, Ysaye and the virtuosi of the modern recording era. The Great Violinists reveals a range of personalities from the conventional to the eccentric. In her coverage of the last hundred years, Margaret Campbell has interviewed many eminent musicians and had rich access to letters and private documents. Her book offers a vivid portrait of skills and traditions that have been handed down through generations. It is a book for string players, students, concert goers and music buffs - indeed, anyone who enjoys the sound of the violin.