Celebrated violin maker Florian Leonhard joins the Royal College of Music

Tuesday 30 January 2018

 

The Royal College of Music is delighted to announce that celebrated violin maker, restorer and dealer Florian Leonhard has been appointed as official Expert and Luthier for Stringed Instruments.

Florian Leonhard is the founder of Florian Leonhard Fine Violins and has a global reputation as one of the world’s foremost makers of modern violins and an exceptional restorer. He is a trusted figure in violin authentication and has restored and supplied Stradivarius and Guarneri instruments for leading soloists including Leonidas Kavakos and Daniel Hope. Most of the world’s great string instruments have passed through his hands and such is his skill that he is able to identify fine violins, violas and cellos by eye.

A loyal supporter of the Royal College of Music for many years, Florian has generously loaned instruments to many musicians training at the RCM. Florian Leonard Fine Violins will provide professional maintenance and repairs and Florian will draw on over 30 years of experience to offer invaluable practical advice and support to students, as well as curating and developing the RCM’s unique collection of fine instruments. 

Florian comments, ‘I’m excited to be looking after the Royal College of Music’s collection and restoring its instruments to their former glory. I’ll be advising on instrument expertise and along with my team working to maximise the sound quality of these ‘tools’ for the future stars. For me it’s a great honour to work with the inspiring, talented students and staff at the Royal College of Music.’

Mark Messenger, Head of Strings at the Royal College of Music comments, ‘Florian is a fervent believer in supporting young musicians, helping them to develop as players and flourish on the international stage. I am delighted that the musicians of the Strings Faculty will have access to the extraordinary knowledge, skill and love of fine instruments Florian brings to the Royal College of Music.’

Find out more about Florian Leonhard at https://www.florianleonhard.com/

Back to top