Made In Italy

The narrative begins with a seemingly mundane occurrence in 1980, as the Kelleys come into possession of an elegant yet mysterious violin. What follows is anything but ordinary. Driven by curiosity about the instrument's origins—its maker, provenance, and journey from Europe to America—the Kelleys dive into a world of historical sleuthing. Along the way, they unravel the violin’s secrets, encountering characters and settings as diverse as idyllic Italian villas and the murky underbelly of the violin trade.

The strength of this book lies in its dual focus: it is as much about the violin as it is about the people who pursue its story. The authors vividly describe their encounters with craftsmen, historians, and music enthusiasts, each contributing a piece to the puzzle. These interactions also serve as a reflection on human passions as readers glimpse the obsession, artistry, and deception surrounding antique violins. From masterful forgeries to harrowing tales of theft, the Kelleys’ journey reveals the violin world’s fascinating blend of beauty and intrigue." —Dylan Kinlock, Amazon 5-Star

"Thomas Walter Kelley’s Made in Italy: Strings Attached - Four Seasons of an Italian Violin is an enchanting memoir that takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the heart of Italy, seen through the eyes of a master violin maker. In this beautifully crafted narrative, Kelley blends the history of his treasured violin with vivid descriptions of the Italian countryside, its rich cultural traditions, and the meticulous art of violin craftsmanship. The book follows Kelley’s personal exploration of a violin made in Cremona, Italy, tracing its origins back to the 18th century. Along the way, Kelley offers fascinating insights into the reasons why old Italian violins are revered for their superior sound, as well as the complex history of grafted necks and other craftsmanship secrets. While the narrative occasionally delves into technical details, it is consistently engaging and resonates with a passion for both music and personal discovery.

Kelley’s narrative beautifully captures the journey of his violin, which has lived through centuries of history, and seamlessly ties the violin’s story with his own. With his wife, Cheri, alongside him, Kelley traces the violin’s origins and its connection to Cremona, once known as the violin capital of the world. The couple’s shared quest to uncover the secrets of this centuries-old instrument provides an intimate and insightful exploration of the life of a violin. This book is more than just an exploration of an instrument; it is a celebration of the artistry, dedication, and timeless craftsmanship behind every violin. Music lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone with an appreciation for cultural storytelling will find themselves absorbed in Kelley’s passion for his subject.

This book offers a unique perspective on the world of violin making, shedding light on the deep history behind these magnificent instruments. The book will captivate anyone with an interest in music, history, or craftsmanship, offering a blend of personal reflection and historical exploration. Kelley’s eloquent storytelling and profound respect for the violin and its makers make this book a compelling read for both musicians and casual readers alike." —Muhammed, Amazon 5-Star