Dear Andre,
I read yesterday that you are copping some flack from a German baritone, Thomas Quasthoff by name, for playing your very valuable Stradivarius violin at your concerts. He is of the opinion that Senor Stradivari 'would be spinning in his grave', and you should play on a cheaper violin.
Now, several things come to mind in relation to this, it is nobody's business but yours what violin you play, so long as it produces the sound you require and like. if you got the required sound from a plastic one, it is still only your business. Because I think you play the Stradivarius so brilliantly, you could probably obtain a reasonable sound from a plastic one!
You have worked so hard to be where you are today, you deserve to play on the best one you can afford. Stradivari or any other brand, no-one has the right to dictate to you on anything pertaining to your instrument?
I think Herr Quasthoff should stick to what he knows and does best, and let you do likewise.
I would just like to say I have recently finished reading, Andre Rieu, My Music, My Life. How it all began. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is beautifully written and a very easy read. It is informative and entertaining. I felt as though you and Marjorie were sitting next to me and telling me all about your trials, etc, as friends do over coffee or such. Thank you both very much.
I would like to wish you all the best for your upcoming tour of Australia, and if there are DVDs you can bet your bottom dollar I will buy them!
2 comments:
A violin maker would be spinning in his grave because someone dared to play his expensive workpiece? What a stupid thing to say. It was made to be played.
My sentiments exactly!! Thank you.
Post a Comment