Soothing symphony! Twin city exhibitions showcase violin masterpieces
2025-03-28 to 2025-04-20
2025-03-28 to 2025-04-20
Violin treasures are on display at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music.
A symphony of soothing violin melodies lingers in the air at the two heavyweight exhibitions being held at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music and the Shangyin Opera House from Friday to Sunday, showcasing violin masterpieces from international and Chinese luthiers.
The century-old historical building of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music has been turned into a palace of violin art, displaying 61 treasures – 49 violins and 12 bows.
These feature 18th to 21st-century works of Italian and French masters, and contemporary Chinese craftsmen. Notable pieces include "Mlynarski" (1718) by Antonio Stradivari, who was one of Italy's greatest string instrument makers; a violin (1785) by Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, one of the most outstanding violin makers in late 18th century in Italy; and the first Chinese-made violin dating back to 1935 by Tan Shuzhen, a highly respected music educator, violinist, and instrument expert.
A glimpse of the Violin Treasures Art Exhibition at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music.
These precious instruments represent the pinnacle of violin-making, offering people an insight into four centuries of the intricate craft.
The International & Domestic Master Luthiers' Handmade Violin Exhibition features violins and bows from Italian luthiers, as well as Chinese craftsmen and studios. It highlights the historical evolution and contemporary advancements in violin making and provides an opportunity for appreciation, listening, and learning.
The two exhibitions are part of the Shanghai Spring International String Music Culture Week running through April 20, which comprises about 30 activities such as exhibitions, master salons, concerts, violin-making workshops and pop-up shows, creating a city-wide violin carnival.
The Shanghai Conservatory of Music has been turned into a palace of violin art.
On April 13, renowned violinist Chen Xiang, known for his superb string skills, is set to appear in the Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra's 2025 season. Collaborating with the orchestra, Chen will perform two excellent violin concertos for Shanghai audiences.
Famous violinist Lv Siqing will depict natural philosophies of the East and West through music, inviting audiences to a "Timeless Four Seasons"-themed musical gathering.
At the Shangyin Opera House, Super Brand Mall, Zhangyuan Garden and Global Harbor, violin pop-up shows will be held through April 20, while violin pop-up performances at bus stops on the Bund and on the Huangpu River cruise ships will take people on a musical journey.
Bows are exhibited
Violin Treasures Art Exhibition
Opening hours: 10am-5pm
Venue: City Concert Hall, Shanghai Conservatory of Music
Address: 1209 Huaihai Rd M., Xuhui District 徐汇区淮海中路1209号
Admission: Free
International & Domestic Master Luthiers' Handmade Violin Exhibition
Venue: Shangyin Opera House
Address: 6 Fengyang Rd, Xuhui District 徐汇区汾阳路6号
Admission: Free
The Shanghai Spring International String Music Culture Week features a series of violin concerts and performances that involve the public.
Timeless Four Seasons
Opening hours: 7:30pm, April 3
Venue: Shanghai Oriental Art Center
Address: 425 Dingxiang Rd, Pudong New Area 浦东丁香路425号
Ernst and Dvorak Violin Concertos
Opening hours: 7:30pm, April 13
Venue: Jaguar Shanghai Symphony Hall
Address: 1380 Fuxing Rd M., Xuhui District 徐汇区复兴中路1380号