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Solving the Stradivarius Secret
March 25, 2009
William F. Fry professor emeritus, physics, University of Wisconsin
Rose Mary Harbison artistic director, Token Creek Chamber Music Festiva

Physicist William F. "Jack" Fry and violinist Rose Mary Harbison rediscover the legendary sound of the Stradivarius violin.

Since the early 1700s, "Golden Age" Italian violins have been revered for their superior tone. Scores of scientists, artisans, and musicians have sought answers to the mystery of their sound, but none has been able to duplicate the magic created by these coveted instruments. Characterizing varnish, wood, and geography as secondary factors, William Fry has revived the 17th century science of levers, focusing on the violin's inner graduations.

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Museum of Science, Boston

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