Norwegian violinist Vilde Frang will be loaned the 1734 ‘Rode’ Guarneri del Gesù violin by a generous
benefactor. The project was facilitated by Steven Smith of leading violin dealers J & A Beare and Stephan
Jansen, co-founder of the Stretton Society, a private philanthropic club that supports classical music and
musicians through various stringed instruments and platforms.
Frang commented: “Words cannot describe what a milestone the discovery of the ‘Rode ’Guarneri has been for
me. Having had the privilege to explore an incredible selection of instruments recommended by J & A Beare in
search of the right instrument, the ‘Rode’ happens to be the violin of my dreams. Thanks to them, and to the
incredible generosity of the Stretton Society who have secured the long-term loan, I feel truly blessed that I am
able to keep on playing on it! My joy and gratitude are expanding every day.”
The joint project is a remarkable achievement between J & A Beare Ltd and the Stretton Society, whose work is
aimed at benefiting exceptionally talented artists.
The violin has an illustrious history, having been played in the past by celebrated virtuosi such as Pierre Rode,
Norbert Brainin and Kyung Wha Chung. It is preserved in beautiful condition and produces a powerful sound,
full of rich tonalities.
Norwegian-born Vilde Frang has studied with Kolja Blacher at Musikhochschule Hamburg and Ana
Chumachenco at the Kronberg Academy. She debuted as a soloist at the age of 12 with the Oslo Philharmonic
Orchestra and went on to win a scholarship at the Anne-Sophie Mutter Foundation. Her recent and forthcoming
solo engagements include performances with Berlin Philharmonic, Chamber Orchestra of Europe, London
Symphony, Concertgebouw Orchestra, Chicago Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Israel Philharmonic, Sydney
Symphony, with conductors such as Vladimir Ashkenazy, Zubin Mehta, Sir Simon Rattle and many others. Frang
has won numerous awards including the Grand Prix du Disque, Edison Klassiek Award, Deutsche
Schallplattenpreis, Diapason d’Or and Gramophone Award.
Vilde Frang ends four year search for the perfect violin.
