05/05/2026
It was a pleasure to spend the day with such a lovely group of people full of curiousity and enthusiasm!
The past two weeks have been a tale of 3 Florian’s.
Firstly we were very happy to welcome Florian Leonhard. Florian very generously took time away from his famous London workshop schedule, to present an all encompassing talk to the students. Not only did we receive a fascinating insight to the violin world from a very personal angle, but we were treated to a spread of stunning historically significant instruments that brought the lecture to life even more. A gorgeous mid golden period Stradivari, a humbling Guarneri del Gesu from the late 1730’s, and to make the point that Cremona was hot but not the only spot, we had a glorious Peter Guarneri of Venice from the early 1720’s to link the timeline. Our 3rd year tutor John Wright was graciously allowed to demonstrate the sound of each instrument to the students and help illustrate the conversation of the vastly different arch shapes and how they might impact the tonal qualities. The set was also completed by a Stradivari model violin fresh from Florian’s own workshop and I think all in attendance were impressed by how it compared to the old masters on show with it.
Next up, our second year students had the gift of Florian Bailey’s time to illuminate more, the world of bows on our course. This generous guest lecture, from one of the UK’s top bow restorers, brings a perfect compliment of something different yet extremely relevant, to our 2nd years who often start to consider what avenue of the profession they may journey along.
Last but by no means least, we have our very own 2nd year repair and restoration lecturer, Florian Forconi, who celebrated a very special birthday this week. Happy birthday Flo from all the staff and students 🎂.
Three very different Florian’s that all bring their unique qualities to the journey of our students. A perfect demonstration of the huge benefits we see from all working together towards a worthy cause.
Thanks to all involved for organising and coordinating these essential visits, that undoubtedly punctuate the deep dive of a journey our students take at Newark.
