The Beare’s Scientific Research and Conservation department is a global first in the world of fine violins, with innovative research and unprecedented scope enhanced by partnerships with leading international institutions.

Research Programme

The Beare’s Scientific Research and Conservation department is unique among major dealers.

Led by luthier Robert Brewer Young, the work utilises the latest cutting-edge techniques to reveal hidden elements of fine antique instruments. Within our in-house laboratory, microscopy, material and acoustic analysis, and further non-invasive techniques are used to make new discoveries in the structure of the wood and varnish of instruments.

Analysis of data gained through the Scientific Research department‘s investigative protocols, combined with Beare’s extensive sales records, can be used to authenticate instruments more accurately than at any previous point in history.

A greater understanding of the chemical and structural composition of the materials used in instruments by different makers also informs the restoration work of our in-house workshops. Analysis of varnish and other components by the Scientific Research department will allow our restorers to more accurately replicate a historic maker’s materials in their work, giving a true-to-life restoration and better conserving these precious instruments for future generations.

Public Events

The Beare’s Scientific Research and Conservation department showcases its latest work and most recent scientific publications in quarterly public presentations and discussions. Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed of the latest events, including booking information.

7pm, Wed 29 Nov | J & A Beare

European Graduate School: Institute for Music and Philosophy - Launch Event

For over 20 years, the Philosophy, Art and Critical Thought Division at the European Graduate School (EGS) has been exploring the foundations of modern thought and creative practice while addressing the most urgent questions of the day. In an exciting expansion of its programme, EGS is launching a new London site for cross-disciplinary research, the Institute for Music and Philosophy.

Join us at J & A Beare for a launch event introducing the vision behind the project and its ambitions for the future, alongside a presentation by cellist Matthew Barley. He will be joined by the project’s directors, Christopher Fynsk, Dean of the Division of Philosophy, Art, and Critical Thought at the European Graduate School, and Robert Brewer Young, Director of the Scientific Research and Conservation Department at J & A Beare.

Please RSVP before Monday 27 November to Sam Blade using the button below.

6pm, Tue 9 Jan | J & A Beare

Photography in Violin Analysis

185 years since the invention of the Daguerrotype by artist Louis Daguerre in France, the medium of photography has flourished in myriad ways, expanding the capabilities of art, journalism and science.

In this evening, the Beare’s Scientific Research department team outlines the importance of modern photography practice, showcasing the methods by which the latest techniques uncover previously hidden details in antique instruments.

Robert Brewer Young

Director, Head of Scientific Research and Conservation

E: robertyoung@beares.com

Jason Reitenberger

Research Associate

Sebastian Gonzalez PhD

Research Associate

Research Collaborators

In undertaking its research programme, the Beare’s Scientific Research and Conservation department regularly works with many of the world’s leading institutions. We are grateful for their support and expertise, and are proud to have collaborated on projects with the following universities and museums:

London Institute for Mathematical Sciences
Royal Institution, London
Museo del Violino, Cremona
Cambridge University Department of Engineering
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York