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The Secret of the Strad's Superiority

Scientist find mellow tone is in the wood

By Peter Fearon, Newser Staff

Posted Jul 2, 2008 11:49 AM CDT

(Newser) – Stradivarius violins—300 years old and valued at least $3 million each—are universally recognized as producing the richest sounds. Now, the Daily Telegraph reports, scientists believe they know why. X-rays of several old and new instruments show the wood used by 17th-century violin makers has a more uniform density than modern violins. How that was achieved remains a mystery.

"If you look at the wood you can see patterns of the year rings in the wood," said the Dutch computer scientist who led the study, explaining that less dense rings occur in spring, when trees are growing rapidly, and more dense rings in winter. The density was more consistent in the older models. "I think this is a step forward in trying to reproduce this sound," he said, "But then you need to have a CT scanner. That's the practical problem."

Violinist Joshua Bell embraces his 1713 Stradivarius, purchased several years ago for more than $3 million. Scientists believe they have uncovered the secret behind the sound of a Stradivarius. (AP Photo/Gino Domenico)

Tamsin Waley-Cohen of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra plays a Stradivarius violin. Scientists believe they have uncovered the secret behind the sound of a Stradivarius. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

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The Secret of the Strad's Superiority

Scientist find mellow tone is in the wood

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Stradivari • violin • CT scanner • Stradivarius violin • Cremona • Guarneri del Gesu • Dr Berend Stoel • Leiden University Medical Center

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Scientist find mellow tone is in the wood

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

Stradivari • violin • CT scanner • Stradivarius violin • Cremona • Guarneri del Gesu • Dr Berend Stoel • Leiden University Medical Center

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Stradivarius Market Hits High Note

Rush for 300-year-old violins sparks intrigue, drives price to millions

Stradivarius' Powers Just a Musical Myth

Researchers show that even pro musicians can't tell the difference

Stradivarius Violin Sells for $16M

Violin built in 1721 has hardly been played

$1.9M Stradivarius Stolen at Sandwich Shop

Two pricey bows were also in the case

'Beckham of Classical Music' Is Hit on Charts, With Ladies

David Garrett loves Metallica, sets world records

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Newser By Users

Community

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