Music is an important part of our lives and comes in many forms. And most definitely, the term "one size fits all" does not apply when discussing the vast number of styles in this time-treasured art form.
 
As can be said pretty much across the board when comparing the mores of current society to those of times past, what was taboo then—be it for better, or worse—has now become the norm.

In nearly every country in the world today, women are welcome to participate in orchestras and their talent is lauded. But such was not always the case.

In the 19th Century, women were not allowed to play in orchestras or symphonies. They were considered too genteel and delicate-natured for the rigors of practice and dedication required to master an instrument. (Oh ye of little faith…)

In my research for A Note Yet Unsung (a Belmont Mansion novel, book 3), I came across a popular opinion of the time that not only supported the preclusion of women playing in orchestras, but that also set forth that a woman playing a violin in public would be scandalous. Far too sensuous and suggestive. No proper woman would ever consider doing such a thing!

And from that…the idea for a A Note Yet Unsung, the third and final Belmont Mansion novel, was born.

So now that I had a woman violinist, I needed a violin. And what better violin could Rebekah Carrington—the heroine in A Note Yet Unsung—play than a Stradivarius?

Being a fan of concert violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, I naturally chose the Molitor Stradivarius, which Ms. Meyers has owned in the past. The Molitor, an exquisite $3.6 million dollar violin, was crafted by Antonio Stradivari in 1697 yet looks as though it was made yesterday. It's still in perfect condition.

Enjoy Anne Akiko Meyers (below) playing the coveted violin that's part of Tate and Rebekah's journey in A Note Yet Unsung. And I hope you enjoy Tate and Rebekah’s story!