The exhibition offers a visual feast.
A symphony of soothing violin melodies lingers in the air as two heavyweight exhibitions are held at Shanghai Conservatory of Music and Shangyin Opera House between Friday and Sunday, showcasing violin masterpieces from international and Chinese luthiers.
The century-old historical building of Shanghai Conservatory of Music is turned into a palace of violin art, displaying 61 violin treasures, including 49 violins and 12 bows.
These feature 18th to 21st-century works from Italian and French masters, and contemporary Chinese craftsmen. Notable pieces include “Mlynarski” (1718) by Italian violin maker 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 into the display
These precious violins represent the pinnacle of violin-making, offering people an insight into four centuries of violin making 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.
Shanghai Conservatory of Music
On April 13, renowned violinist Chen Xiang, known for his superb violin 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 the 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 Shangyin Opera House, Super Brand Mall, Zhangyuan Garden and Global Harbor, violin pop-up shows will be held through April 20, while voilin pop-up performances at bus stops in the Bund and on the Huangpu River cruise ships will take people on a music journey and get immersed in violin charm and culture.
A glimpse into the exhibition
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 Road, Xuhui District 徐汇区汾阳路6号
Admission: Free
The culture week engages the public.
Timeless Four Seasons
Opening hours: 7:30pm, April 3
Venue: Shanghai Oriental Art Center
Address: 425 Dingxiang Road, 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
A glimpse into the exhibition