This book is a must-read for music enthusiasts and lovers of craftsmanship. It explores the fascinating story of the highly coveted Stradivarius violins and cello and their creator's life, methods, and legacy. The book includes details about the history of the instruments and how they were passed down to some of the world's greatest musicians. It also delves into the darker side of the Stradivarius's mythos of forgery, shady dealers and the use of science in the quest to create a replica that rivals the original. Toby Faber's work is a delightful leitmotif for an original comedie humaine that any music lover can enjoy.

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Everyone knows of the legendary quality and unbelievable price tag of a Stradivarius violin. In this, the first popular account of the Stradivari phenomena, Toby Faber explores the life and methods of this unsurpassed craftsman. Following the life of his instruments as they pass through the hands of many of the greatest musicians that have ever lived, we learn how and why they have become objects of such veneration and desire. It is a dramatic tale of grand artistry, fantastic music, shady dealers, forgery and science. `Fascinating, accessible and enjoyable` - Tracy Chevalier `A captivating book... An extraordinary accomplishment and a compelling read` - TE Cahart, author of The Piano Shop On The Left Bank `An inspired idea for a book` - Telegraph `Faber has found in the Strad a delightful leitmotif for an original comedie humaine` - Financial Times `Faber pitches the story just right, neither patronising nor baffling the reader` - Times

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