ANGELA LYONS
For most string players, performing on a priceless Stradivari is the stuff of dreams – even the idea of handling such a valuable and historic instrument inspires exhilaration and trepidation in equal measure. Janine Jansen, one of the world’s most admired soloists, has performed on multiple high-calibre Stradivaris throughout her career, including her current 1715 ‘Shumsky, Rode’. Yet recording her new album – which required the Dutch violinist to become familiar with twelve celebrated Stradivaris in a matter of weeks – was at times an overwhelming experience. As Jansen tells Pauline Harding on page 26, the sheer variety of tones and textures threatened ‘to make the head explode’, particularly given the need for different bows, strings and playing styles to bring out the best in each instrument.