The Australian Chamber Orchestra has a new member in its ranks, called Mr Dollfus. He is not a musician but a violin – the 1732 ‘ex-Dollfus’ Stradivarius on loan from an anonymous benefactor.

It is the third ‘Golden Age’ violin by master Italian maker Antonio Stadivari acquired by the ACO, and will be played by ACO Principal Violin Helena Rathbone.

Rathbone has describe the opportunity to be the custodian of the violin, which she has dubbed Mr Dollfus, as “a dream come true”.

Helena Rathbone with the 1732 ‘ex-Dollfus’ Stradivarius violin. Photo courtesy of the Australian Chamber Orchestra

“It is an unbelievably wonderful privilege to be the custodian of such a fine instrument. I am so looking forward to getting to know the ‘ex-Dollfus’ more intimately as we play many concerts and tell many stories together through music,” said Rathbone.

“This violin stands out as having an incredibly even tone across all its registers as if there is no weak spot. Its tone is remarkably strong, yet beautifully sweet and richly warm. As a player, the ex-Dollfus feels utterly reliable as if it is there to help you bring out exactly which ever shade of...