Paolo De Barbieri, Genoa 1939

Paolo De Barbieri (b.1889, d.1962) is one of the great makers of Genoa. He led a colorful life by any standard. At 13 years of age, he left a note on the table of his home stating that he’d be right back. In fact, he ran away to become a sailor and didn’t return for six years. Upon his return, he apprenticed with Cesar Candi. Candi, in turn, was one of the greatest Bolognese makers, having studied with Raffael Fiorini, and was curator of Paganini’s famed 1743 Guarnerius, ‘Il Cannone’. This violin owes much to ‘Il Cannone’. It is an absolute pleasure to play this virtually pristine instrument. It has a deep, smooth, rich and enveloping lower register and a soaring, brilliant upper register while maintaining a sweetness throughout. Its response is lightning quick and its flexibility is outstanding.

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