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The original German luthiers crafted some of the most popular antique violins. Jacob Stainer, Matthias and Sebastion Klotz and Leopold Widhalm are a few of the more famous German violin craftsmen. The contributions of three of these masters to the world of music is the topic of this article.

Jacob Stainer was born in 1621 and is considered by most to be the greatest of all German violin makers. It is believed that Stainer worked with a member of the Amati family as his violin varnish is very similar to that used by the Amatis. Stainer was a good violinist in his own right which helped him achieve the tone he sought in his violins. In 1669, Stainer was accused of heresy and was asked to recant. He spent time in jail and, when released, was a poor man and could not provide for his family. He died with mental problems in 1683.

The violin making was founded in Mittenwald by Matthias Klotz, who was born in 1656. He was largely influenced by Stainer. The ground on his violins has turned a dark color and the varnish is a yellow color. He expired in 1743 at the age of 87. The Klotz had another finest maker of violin in Mittenwald in the form of Sebastian Klotz (1696-1768). His violins were patterned by his son, Joseph Klotz.

Leopold came into the world in Germany a bit after the turn of the eighteenth century. Many people think that he was the most talented violin artisan of the period. The wood, combined with the stain and shape made the instrument unique. He left us at just a bit more than 50 years of age.

Any of the old violins made by these legendary German luthiers commands a good price today. Should you have the chance to purchase one and be able to afford it, by all means, take it as you can't go wrong. You'll have a wonderful sounding instrument as well as one that will surely continue to appreciate in value.

If you're browsing for fiddles, be sure to consider one of the fine German violins available at Ye Olde Violin Shoppe. Home to the master luthiers of yesterday and today, as well as a violin forum!