Gather the Symphony: Prestigious Musical Devices Needed
Cashing in on the symphony:
In the world of rare orchestral instruments, a Stradivarius violin sold for a whopping $11.25 million at Sotheby's New York on February 7. But, don't get too excited, as it didn't quite break the record! So, does this mean the value is plummeting? Hell no!
The Orchestra - The Musical Swiss Army Knife
When it comes to an orchestra, four categories of instruments dream together to create a harmonious masterpiece—strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Each section delights separately while collectively complimenting the conductor's magic.
Every artist buys their own personal musical ride, be it from a permanent loan or an investment in the instrument's ownership. Prices for these one-of-a-kind artifacts range from under $100 to staggering millions.
Time to Pick a Melody
When collecting instruments, there are some factors to consider:
- Choose your battlefield: Pick an instrument you can afford and that matches your taste.
- Embrace the old souls: Antique instruments from reputable makers can significantly boost the price tag.
- Look for the right duet: Pair a great maker with a great player, and you'll strike gold in valuation.
- Check the condition: Make sure an older piece is complete and ready for a refurbishing touch.
- Trace the history: The instrument's origin story and previous owners can add allure and value, even if it's not the top-tier piece.
Cello-brating a Classic
The cello first emerged in Northern Italy during the 1600s and gained popularity thanks to its superior design and enhanced volume. Famous players like Yo-Yo Ma, Jacqueline du Pre, and Zara Nelsova have strummed this versatile instrument.
A 1743 "Ex-Havemeyer" Guadagnini cello made headlines in 2016 by selling for $1.5 million, shattering two world records: the highest price for a Guadagnini at auction, and the highest price ever achieved for a cello at Tarisio Auctions.
Expensive Flute: No, it's not Boorman's olive green brass number
The A Verne Q. Powell flute, serial no. 365, is considered the most expensive flute in the world. Made for the 1939 New York World's Fair, it was so valuable that it was guarded by armed guards.
From Powell #365, it went to renowned flutist William Kincaid, who used it until his death in 1967. He later passed it on to one of his star pupils, Elaine Shaffer. This flute currently resides at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
Clarinet shenanigans with King Swing
Benny Goodman, also known as "The King of Swing," owned an incredibly expensive clarinet. He stirred up the Jazz scene with this Selmer Paris K Series Bb clarinet, painting a vibrant picture of Swing in the 1930s.
The Trumpet's Royal Legacy
Miles Davis, one of the most significant jazz musicians of all time, owned a trumpet designed and played by himself. The "Martin Committee" Trumpet B♭, with gilt crescent moon and stars, was painstakingly engraved by Davis and commands a massive $275,000 by Christie's Auctions.
Trombone for the Fancy Folk
The most expensive trombones have an F attachment and can occasionally cost over $10,000. Famous players like Ralph Sauer have been known to play these high-end instruments.
Tuba-ish Facts
The tuba is a relatively young instrument, made first on September 12, 1835. Chicago Symphony Orchestra's Principal Tuba Player, Gene Pokorny, is considered one of the finest players of all time. His 19th-century Chicago York tuba could fetch around $100,000 at auction.
Timpani: The Sassy Cymbals
Timpani evolved from military drums to become an essential part of the classical orchestra by the 18th century. Chicago Symphony Orchestra's principal tuba player, Gene Pokorny, is lauded as one of the finest players of all time. Numerous sources say that if the 19th-century Chicago York tuba played by Pokorny is ever sold at auction, it would likely fetch around $100,000.
Cymbals: Rhythm of the Gods
Cymbals are used in various types of music, from classical to rock. An antique Zildjian crash cymbal in good condition can fetch $2,510. It once belonged to the Syncopated Sisters in Southern California during the Roaring '20s.
May 2025: The Collecting Continues
Fluctuating market trends, fueled by factors like rarity, maker reputation, and global economic conditions, keep the market for rare and antique orchestral instruments dynamic.
Bites of information
- A 2021 report from Reuning & Son Violins shows that seven instruments valued at or above $20 million have been sold since 2019, highlighting the enduring high demand for authentic, top-tier pieces.
- Tariffs and trade actions have increased the prices for imported instruments, potentially increasing the market for rare and antique instruments as alternatives become more expensive.
- The Stradivarius violin may have been surpassed in value, but its sale at Sotheby's New York has emphasized the high demand for music instruments, especially those with a rich history, providing insight into the vast arena of entertainment-related investments.
- In the world of timeless tunes, the A Verne Q. Powell flute, mobbed by armed guards and considered the most expensive flute globally, showcases the allure and value investors find in rare and antique musical instruments throughout diverse genres of entertainment.
