The Project

This project is dedicated to the preservation, study and responsible circulation of historical string instruments.
Its aim is to safeguard instruments at risk of neglect or loss, while allowing them to remain active through carefully managed loans to musicians.

The instruments are approached not as static objects, but as living tools, whose value is fully realised through informed and respectful use.

What the project does

Preservation and care
The project focuses on identifying and safeguarding historical string instruments that require attention or protection.
Each instrument is assessed individually, with conservation practices aimed at preserving structural integrity and historical authenticity, avoiding invasive interventions whenever possible.

Research and documentation
Alongside practical preservation, the project develops ongoing historical and organological research.
This includes direct study of instruments, comparative observation, and dialogue with musicians, makers and researchers.
The research will gradually take the form of written publications and curated online material.

Instrument loans
Instruments within the project may be made available through selective loan to musicians, subject to availability and evaluation.
Loans are intended as part of the preservation process itself: an instrument that is played responsibly remains alive and meaningful.

Why instrument loans matter

Access to high-quality instruments is often limited by economic or practical constraints.
This project seeks to bridge that gap, supporting musicians who would otherwise not have access to suitable instruments, while ensuring clear standards of care and responsibility.

Each loan is based on mutual trust, shared responsibility and a formal loan agreement.

Research in progress

A central aspect of the project is the study of under-documented traditions of violin making from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
The research follows an open and evolving approach, allowing the focus to develop naturally as instruments and sources become available.

Long-term perspective

Over time, the project aims to grow into a structured collection, with the possibility of developing into a more formal entity dedicated to preservation, research and instrument loan.

The project is conceived as a long-term, evolving initiative.

Curator

The project is curated by Alessandro Parfitt, cellist and researcher, whose work explores the relationship between performance, historical instruments and cultural heritage.

Contact and collaboration

For collaborations, research enquiries, instrument reports or loan requests, please get in touch via the professional contact page.

Instrument loans are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and are subject to availability, insurance coverage and a formal loan agreement.