BSO Leader Amyn Merchant Plays on a Violin by Gonzalo Bayolo

We are thrilled to announce that Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Leader Amyn Merchant now plays on a Guarneri model Violin by the Spanish luthier Gonzalo Bayolo.

‍Amyn's thoughts on his new instrument:

I thought I would never find a modern instrument that would compare to my Andrea Guarneri, but Ariel and Pedro had just such a violin! I love playing on it, and I know it will continue to develop. The buying process was great too. From start to finish they were helpful and professional, and I would be happy to recommend MyLuthier to anyone searching for a fine sounding instrument that doesn’t cost the earth. Thank you!

About the Instrument

bayolo violin — Fantastic sounding Guarneri del Gesù Model Violin by Spanish maker Gonzalo Bayolo. We are big fans of Gonzalo's instruments at MyLuthier and we think he is one of the great makers of our generation. A perfect example, this violin achieves a rare balance of power and warmth. It speaks beautifully in all registers and the sound is characterized by its resonance and core.

About Amyn Merchant

Amyn Merchant studied at the Royal Northern College of Music, and was awarded a post-graduate degree with a distinction in performance in 2001. A keen chamber musician, Amyn has performed recently with other members of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in the Portsmouth Chamber Music series, and has appeared in the Chichester Festivities and Wye Valley Festival. He has also given recitals with piano throughout the UK. He has appeared many times as soloist, including with the BBC Symphony Orchestra in Sir Michael Tippett’s Fantasia Concertante on a theme of Corelli, with performances in London, on Radio 3, and on tour in the Far East, and with the BSO in concerts in the UK and France. Most recently Amyn performed The Lark Ascending by Vaughan-Williams with the BSO at the Guildhall in Portsmouth.

Amyn has held posts in the Hallé Orchestra and in the BBC Symphony Orchestra, including Principal 2nd Violin. He has led the 2nd Violins in the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden, and has appeared as Guest Leader of the Philharmonia and the Ulster Orchestra. In February 2012 he was appointed Leader of the BSO.

About the Author

MyLuthier was started by two friends while they were studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London. The idea was to provide musicians with exceptional instruments at a price they can afford. We travelled Europe in search for the best contemporary makers and we’re proud of our selection and the partnerships we’ve developed.