I got my very first violin when I was 12 years old after harassing my dad day after day for a couple of weeks. My dad loved me and always tried his best to provide whatever I needed whenever possible, but that violin cost him 39 RMB (about 6 US dollars based on today's exchange rate) which was two thirds of his monthly wage at a time when our family counted on every dollar. That violin accompanied me like a best friend throughout my school years and even travelled with me all over the world. My dad never regretted purchasing the violin for me, because I learnt to play and played for him whenever he asked. He said playing the violin was like talking to wood, and you just could not do it without the spirit and the intelligence.

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In 2012 when I was searching for a fine cello for my daughter I got the chance to play a violin made by master maker David Gusset in his very workshop, and I was shocked at how beautiful a violin could sound! The Gusset violin aroused my strong desire to play again after not playing the violin for many years because of my busy schedule. A fine violin can be your best friend and keep you company for the rest of your life. A fine violin can grow with you if you treat her well. A fine violin can enhance your playing capability and help you get the best out of youself. A fine violin made by beautiful craftsmanship is not just a tool but a piece of art which you can enjoy even by just looking at her. However, a fine violin can be a little hard to play and does not have the round sound when she is new. This is where your patience will pay off. Remember even Stradivarius made new violins! Since my childhood, classical music and violins have been where my greatest passion is and I hope you will feel the same. 

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Kevin W Zhang - Owner of Italian Violin LLC

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