Masakichi Suzuki

SUZUKI, Masakichi Born 1859, died 1944 Nagoya Japan Interested in violins from the age of 14. First instrument on Brescian lines with slab cut front. Established professionally 1888 with several craftsmen working for him. Opened showrooms in Tokyo 1889, and a new factory 1890. Exhibited successfully in Chicago 1893. Designed and made machines to enable mass-production of instruments for export to Europe. Two more factories established 1916. Awarded gold medal at Philadelphia 1927. From 1945 the factory was divided between the Nagoya Suzuki Co., run by his son Umeo (Born 1889, died 1981), and the Kiso Suzuki Co., directed by another son, Kikuo. Own original hand-made instruments are now of some value. Mass-produced instruments still produced in large numbers for export. Generally modelled on classical Stradivari models with clear bright orange red varnish. Influential in spreading acceptance of the western violin in the oriental world. Son Shinichi developed successful ‘Suzuki Method’ for teaching young children. Masakichi Suzuki No 3455 / Nagoya 1926

Ein Japaner, der auf der Ausstellung in Chicago 1893 mehrere Geigen, die gut im Ton und von guter Arbeit waren, ausgestellt hatte.