TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Chimei Museum said Thursday that its annual music concert will showcase 11 rare stringed instruments, highlighting masterpieces by the Guarneri family, one of the three major violin-making dynasties of Cremona, Italy, per a press release.

“Violin Masterpieces of the Guarneri Dynasty” will be held on March 21 at Chimei Museum and on March 22 at Eslite Performance Hall. The museum said violins crafted by the Guarneri family are renowned for their free-spirited sound and highly individualized acoustics and aesthetics.

Andrea Amati (1505-1577) is recognized as the founder of the Cremonese school of violin making. Through generations of master craftsmen, the school reached its zenith with Antonio Stradivari (1644-1737), its skill and reputation spreading throughout Italy and the world.

Andrea Guarneri (1623–1698), the founder of the Guarneri dynasty, apprenticed under Nicolo Amati (1596–1684). He would later go on to develop a powerful and individualistic style that built upon Amati’s meticulous craftsmanship.

The Guarneri family’s international reputation grew significantly following the acclaim of legendary 19th-century violinist Niccolo Paganini (1782–1840), whose performances elevated the status of the family’s instruments. Guarneri violins subsequently became highly sought after by professional musicians.

The family reached the height of its influence with third-generation master luthier Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesu (1698–1744), often referred to as “Jesus Guarneri” because his violins bore the “IHS” inscription and a cross. He is widely regarded as the greatest violin maker after Antonio Stradivari, and his instruments are considered the most representative examples of the Guarneri style.

Chimei Museum said the concert will feature 11 renowned violins and other stringed instruments, including seven made by members of the Guarneri family, offering audiences a comprehensive view of the dynasty’s craftsmanship. Among the highlights is a performance of the “Ole Bull,” regarded as the final masterpiece by Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesu.

Chimei Museum's violin consultant, Chung Dai-ting (鍾岱廷), will also share stories of famous violins and the secrets of their making at the concert. Music will be performed by Taiwanese violinist William Wei (魏靖儀), along with a group of outstanding contemporary violinists and pianist Wang Pei-yao (魏靖儀).