AN UPDATE ON THE SOUND OF A PETKO STOINOV VIOLIN

September 21, 2016, 2:34 AM · Some time ago I submitted an article concerning the work of Petko Stoinov, Kazanlak, Bulgaria, a violin costing very little compared to some modern makers but with a remarkable initial sound.

Over time, the sound has improved. I have spent a lot of money trying different strings and have now settled on Warchal Amber (G and D), Warchal Russian Style (A) and Pirastro Gold Label (E).

For those who don't know, Trinity College of Music London offer a Licentiate Diploma just by Recital. It is first degree level without all the other subjects studied by full-time students, composition, harmony, etc., in other words, a degree in playing.

As a kid, all I ever wanted to do was sit at the back of the seconds in some theatre pit orchestra or, if very fortunate, at the back of the seconds in some symphony orchestra. It was not to be - parental intervention.

Anyway, at the age of 75, I mugged up the Intro and Rondo Capriciosso and the Cesar Franck A major Sonata, applied for the LTCL and brought it off with a great mark out of 100.

Point is, the examiner's report commented on the "lovely sound" of the violin. That is mainly down to Petko and he was correct when he said his violins get better and better with time.

Thank you Petko and I'll use your violin for the Fellowship exam which is a Masters just by recital - Elgar Concerto, Lark Ascending and Frolov Porgy and Bess.