Historic Stradivarius and Guarneri Violins Exhibited in Kapan

YEREVAN, JULY 11, ARMENPRESS:  Florian Leonhard, head of the renowned violin sales company Florian Leonhard Fine Violins, visited Yerevan as part of the Kapan International Music Festival. During his visit, he showcased unique musical instruments from his collection in Kapan, including legendary violins crafted by Antonio Stradivarius and Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesù. This indeed is not his first collaboration with Armenia; Florian Leonhard Fine Violins granted permission to the winner of the 20th Aram Khachaturian International Competition that was held in June 2024 to use one of its exclusive violins for one year. 

According to "ARMENPRESS," Florian Leonhard emphasized the significance of the special prize awarded to the winner of the Khachaturian International Competition, stating that it is crucial that the importance of the first prize is highlighted at major international events where world-renowned individuals are present.

Florian Leonhard, who has over 40 years of experience working with the finest instruments and musicians, expressed his commitment to supporting Armenia. In a conversation with us, he mentioned that his aim in visiting Armenia was to offer support within his capabilities. According to him, there is a long list of talented Armenian musicians who are renowned worldwide and while most of them live outside Armenia, he strives to help local musicians become acquainted with the latest trends in music and encourages them to remain in their homeland to pursue their careers.

Leonhard is also a famous luthier; he made his first violin in 1982. In a conversation with us, he talked about the mental satisfaction and harmony he experiences while creating a musical instrument. Raised in a family immersed in art and beauty, with his mother being a violinist and his father an artist, Leonhard’s worldview was shaped by this artistic environment, allowing him to achieve his current success. Today, through his work, he endeavors to inspire talented individuals to achieve their goals.

Leonhard's violins were exhibited for a week in Kapan, attracting about 2,300 visitors. He happily emphasized the importance of presenting classical music in a remote region of Armenia and cherished the opportunity to be part of this beautiful educational initiative.