Beare's brokers sale of landmark 1755 Guadagnini violin

Historic instrument paired with rising star Aubree Oliverson

We are delighted to announce the successful placement of the 1755 G.B. Guadagnini violin with a passionate French collector. Crafted in Milan during a pivotal moment in the career of Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, the 1755 violin exemplifies the maker’s evolving style and tonal brilliance.

Previously played by Ben Bowman, esteemed concertmaster of the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the instrument is celebrated for its vibrant sonority and exceptional state of preservation. It will now grace international concert stages in the hands of Aubree Oliverson, a rising star of classical music who has performed with major orchestras worldwide. Her artistry and charisma make her a fitting steward for such a distinguished instrument.

As well as the loan, the arrangement includes a cultural residency: Oliverson will perform twice a year at the ‘Guadagnini Cycle’ series, to be hosted at the Château de Larraldia, a recently restored 17th-century estate in the Basque region in south-west France. The first concert will take place on 12 August 2025.

“We are proud to have brought together an exceptional instrument, a visionary collector, and a brilliant young musician in a partnership that honours both tradition and artistic future,” said Steven Smith, Managing Director at J&A Beare. “This is precisely the kind of cultural alliance we strive to foster.”

“I’ve heard many Guadagninis in my life—I’m very familiar with this maker and the different cities where he worked—and I must say, I think this is the finest Guadagnini I have ever heard. As to Aubree… I truly believe that she can become one of the world’s great violinists.” said Robert Lipsett, the Jascha Heifetz Distinguished Violin Chair at the Colburn Conservatory in Los Angeles.

This placement reflects J & A Beare’s ongoing commitment to bridging the worlds of fine instrument collecting and world-class performances, ensuring that masterpieces of the past continue to inspire future generations of music lovers.