Episode 86: violinist Francisco Fullana on the 1735 Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ ’Mary Portman, ex-Kreisler’ violin

Can you imagine playing Kreisler’s violin? If you’re Francisco Fullana, you don’t have to imagine. He is lucky enough to get to play the 1735 Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ 'Mary Portman, ex-Kreisler' violin, thanks to Clement and Karen Arrison through the Stradivari Society of Chicago. He joins online editor Davina Shum in this episode to 'nerd out' on fine violins, speaking about the relationship he has cultivated with this violin over six years of playing and exploring the instrument. Francisco also shares how the violin contributed specifically to his new album Spanish Light, which comprises works by Spanish composers, including Turina, Sarasate, Granados and more. Spanish Light is out on Orchid Classics on 21 July 2023. Check out thestrad.com for the latest news, articles and reviews on all things to do with string playing. Register and subscribe to access exclusive archival content from 2010 onwards. Student discount! Get 50% off an online subscription! Check it out here: https://bit.ly/3eQ75AB  Find us on social media: Facebook.com/thestrad Twitter: @TheStradMag Instagram: @the_strad_ Romanza andaluza - Pablo de Sarasate Francisco Fullana, violin / Alba Ventura, piano Spanish Light  Orchid Classics ORC100250 Photo credit: Miguel Arranz