Heartstrings
John Antes: America’s First Luthier
Feb. 3 – Oct. 29, 2023
Moravian Historical Society
Established in 1857, the Moravian Historical Society preserves, interprets, and celebrates the rich culture of the Moravians. We maintain the 1740-1743 Whitefield House and the 1740 Gray Cottage and we preserve a significant and important museum collection.
Heartstrings Exhibit
John Antes: America’s First Luthier
Join us for a special exhibition of three American firsts—a violin (1759), cello (1763), and viola (1764)—all made by the Pennsylvania-born John Antes (1740-1811). Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating life of John Antes and discover how the trio of Antes instruments came to be reunited. The exhibition will explore how stringed instruments are made and the legacy of lutherie in the Lehigh Valley from Antes to C.F. Martin.
Until recently, only two of Antes’ instruments were thought to still exist—the Moravian Historical Society’s 1759 violin and the Lititz Moravian Museum and Archives’ 1764 viola. The 1763 cello was recently rediscovered in an attic outside of Pittsburgh and bought at auction in 2018 by Thomas Riddle, a descendent of Antes. Now reunited for this special exhibition, the trio represents the oldest surviving American violin family instruments.
Opening reception for the exhibition
Sunday, February 5, 2023 from 1 pm – 3 pm
John Antes and the Birth
of American Chamber Music
Talk by Christopher Ogburn, Ph.D.
Thursday, February 16, at 7:00 pm
Join us for a talk about John Antes and the Moravian music-making and instrument-making tradition.
This talk is free and open to the public, but advanced registration is requested.
All are welcome!
Please note that the museum is located on the second floor, which is accessible only by stairs.
Friday, February 3
Special Exhibition: “Heartstrings, John Antes: America’s First Luthier”
Sunday February 5
Opening Reception for “Heartstrings, John Antes: America’s First Luthier”
Saturday February 11, 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 16, 7:00 p.m.
John Antes and the Birth of American Chamber Music
A talk by Dr. Christopher Ogburn
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