Joseph & Antonio Gagliano, Naples circa 1790

A fine example of Neapolitan artistry and craftsmanship, this violin features a fine grained, two piece top and has exceptional tonal qualities.

In the spring of 2022, the loan of this fine violin will be awarded to a winner of the Friday Morning Music Club competition. For more information please visit: https://fmmcfoundation.org/current-competitions/2022-wic-strings/

Helen Elliott Violin Prize:

The heirs of Helen Mae Tomaski Elliott wish to honor their mother with the loan of her career violin, a fine Italian violin made by Giuseppe and Antonio Gagliano of Naples, circa 1790. Her passion for classical music and love for the well-being and development of her students was always foremost in her professional endeavors. The family would like to see her legacy continue to benefit others in their formative years. Helen’s violin was recently restored by Brobst Violin Shop and is made available, with their services and assistance, to the Washington International Competition.

Helen was a passionate and accomplished concert violinist and received her B.A. in music from DePaul University and her M.A. in Education from Ohio University. She performed with the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra under the direction of Leonard Bernstein, an experience that was a highlight of her musical education. Helen used her education and experience as a violinist to become an orchestra teacher at the City of Alexandria Schools in Virginia. She taught and mentored numerous students both in and out of the classroom, often at her own expense. Helen helped to organize the All-City Orchestras of Alexandria, a vibrant youth orchestra program that enriched the musical experience of thousands of students over many years.

Inventory #: C604E