Young Slovenian Virtuoso to Perform on Multi-Million Dollar Stradivarius

Seventeen-year-old violinist Patricija Avšič is set to perform on a rare and exceptionally valuable Stradivarius violin, known as the Figueroa. This opportunity comes as part of the Philharmonic Classical Concerts subscription series, where she will perform with the Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra.

The Stradivarius Figueroa, crafted in 1686 by Antonio Stradivari in Cremona, is a testament to the master luthier's artistry. The instrument was previously owned by a prominent Puerto Rican musical family and was played by the renowned Pepito Figueroa. Following Hurricane Maria's impact on Puerto Rico in 2017, the family decided to sell the violin. It has now been loaned to Avšič by the Stretton Society, a Berlin institution that partners exclusively with exceptionally talented young artists.

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When I found out I would be able to play a Stradivarius violin, I was genuinely speechless. This is something almost every violinist dreams of.

Avšič, who has been predicted a brilliant international career since childhood, expressed her awe at the prospect of playing such a historic instrument. "When I found out I would be able to play a Stradivarius violin, I was genuinely speechless. This is something almost every violinist dreams of," she shared. She described the violin as highly responsive and unique, requiring time to fully adapt to its capabilities. "Every day I discover some new color of sound or possibility that I didn't know before. It feels like we are still getting to know each other, but I already feel that it can offer me immense inspiration and freedom in creating music," Avšič explained.

Her professor, Boris Kuschnir, emphasizes that a Stradivarius is not a magical tool but rather an instrument that unlocks vast sonic potential. He has guided Avšič to listen intently to the instrument and allow its distinct character to emerge. Avšič noted the violin's rapid response, likening the experience to having a much wider palette of tonal colors for musical expression. This requires intense focus but also grants significant freedom in shaping sound. She recalled childhood dreams inspired by a poster of Stradivari, viewing him as a symbol of the highest level of violin artistry, making the current experience even more profound.

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Every day I discover some new color of sound or possibility that I didn't know before. It feels like we are still getting to know each other, but I already feel that it can offer me immense inspiration and freedom in creating music.