Sotheby’s has unveiled the much-anticipated auction of the Joachim-Ma Stradivarius, a violin that is expected to fetch between $12-18 million during Sotheby's Masters Week in New York this February. With instruments of this caliber rarely appearing on the market, the sale promises to be a landmark event in the world of classical music. If sold for $18 million, the violin would break the record for the most expensive instrument ever sold.
The Joachim-Ma Stradivarius represents the zenith of violin craftsmanship. Crafted in 1714 during Antonio Stradivari’s renowned "Golden Period," the violin is celebrated for its rich golden-brown varnish, exceptional state of preservation, and unparalleled acoustic qualities. Experts describe its tone as warm, complex, and expressive, making it a treasure not only for its historical value but also for its relevance as a music instrument.
See also: Million Dollar Strings: The Violins of Antonio Stradivari
It was once owned by Joseph Joachim, one of the 19th century’s most celebrated violinists and a close collaborator of Johannes Brahms. Joachim likely played this violin during the 1879 premiere of Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D Major, a seminal moment in classical music. Later, the violin found its way to Si-Hon Ma, a violinist and pedagogue, before being donated to the New England Conservatory (NEC) after the death of the previous owner.
The proceeds of the sale will establish the largest named scholarship program in NEC’s history, ensuring access to high-level musical education for generations of talented musicians.
“It fulfils our responsibility to ensure a violin of this caliber is properly maintained and used as the concert instrument it was meant to be,” commented Andrea Kalyn, President of NEC.
Prior to the auction in New York on 7 February, the violin will be exhibited in London and Hong Kong, offering the public a rare chance to view this exceptional piece of art.
