Many luthiers and string players are known for thinking outside the box. Vladimir Oiberman certainly did. While I'm not suggesting that you don't, you probably encountered others who adhere strictly to the rules and do not dare to do anything but the conventional.

Vladimir was a unique kind of luthier. He didn't just craft instruments; he crafted smiles on the faces of thousands upon thousands of people who typically never smiled. Life in the Soviet Union was often bleak unless you were fortunate enough to be born into a Communist family and lived in one of the larger cities. However, for most people, smiles were rare.

When Vladimir had made enough instruments to start two orchestras of folkloric music, it was as if the world had suddenly become brighter, kinder, and more connected.

You might argue that a mere craftsman can't accomplish such things. And you'd be right. Vladimir was more than a craftsman. He revived a musical culture that had been lost, and within this culture, people discovered their true selves. I was 11. And this is when I decided to become a luthier and as a luthier that would be my purpose.

His powerful vision has stayed with me, and today, 43 years later, I still cherish it. I've never outgrown my belief in culture and that culture makes the world better.

I'm excited to share a lifetime of this journey in my second book.
'Da Spalla' is not merely an instrument. It's an approach to life and it is for you IF you are a string player.

If you're a talented individual who sometimes feels life hasn't rolled out the red carpet for you, you'll learn that spalla players are unique folks. They've learned what Orpheus has been trying to teach humanity for thousands of years, albeit in vain. Don't look back if your metaphorical Eurydice is following you, because if you harbor doubts, you will lose her. Spalla playing is a movement of people who don't give up and put their actions where their words are.

#shorts

P.S. The book is available worldwide in two formats, Kindle and paperback, from Amazon, as well as from BookOnDaSpalla.com/ - the book's website.

The background music in this short is played by myself on an instrument on the cover of this book. Unfortunately, the physical CD is sold-out, but Amazon Music is offering it for free: amazon.com/music/player/albums/B097486FXZ?marketpl… I hope you find it enjoyable.