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Question
I own a violin that was made in 1813 by Joh. Bapt. Schweitzer. I was wondering if you could tell me anything about him.
Hi Lauren,
J. B. Schweitzer was a maker born in Graz, Austria. He trained in Vienna, but worked primarily in Budapest (or more precisely, on the Pesth side of the river) from around 1810 to 1865. He worked mainly on a Strad model, and was fairly influential in the Hungarian school, being a master to Nemessanyi, J. B. Dvorak (cousin to the composer), and others.
That being said, his label was reproduced after his death, and there are many more instruments wrongly attributed to him than there are genuine examples of his work. The label was used as a trade name for export to the US by several German and Hungarian workshops. So the odds are against the violin being by Schweitzer, although it's not impossible.
I would recommend that you find a reputable dealer or restorer in your area to have it examined. The website Violinist.com has a fairly comprehensive listing by state.
I hope this is helpful, and good luck!
Sincerely,
Michael
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | I really appreciate you taking the time to answer my question and I will be following your advice and taking my violin to an appraiser. I'm curious! I really am prepared for it to be a copy, though. It already has sentimental value. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Michael Avagliano
Expertise
I can answer questions about the violin family of instruments, including violins, violas, cellos and their bows. I can give advice on repair issues, valuation, and authenticity, although exact appraisals are not possible through the Web. If you'd like an appraisal of a particular instrument, and you tell me your location, I can usually find someone in your area to take it to for help. I have no expertise in fretted instruments (guitars, mandolins, etc.).
Experience
17 years of experience working in violin shops across the US, including 4 years of owning my own firm in New Jersey and 3 years working as director of sales for one of the best-known firms in the world. Also, as a professional musician, I've known the violin all my life.
Education/Credentials
BM, Indiana University School of Music; AS, String Instrument Technology, Indiana University; MM, Rutgers University. I also have spent 24 years as a professional violinist and violist, and 17 years repairing, restoring, and dealing in instruments.
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