Bente Torstensson: 'I knew it
was time for a different
instrument'
'Thanks to generous music lovers, the Netherlands Musical Instrument Foundation can give instruments on loan to talented musicians. Currently, over 435 talented musicians, including violinist Bente Torstensson, play an instrument from our collection that suits their ambitions. Bente reached out to us because she was ready for a new challenge. Now she's the proud player of a violin built by Lambert Houniet in 1994. Read on to get to know her!'
Why were you looking for a different violin?
‘I'd been enjoying my own instrument for about seven years, but I realized I was outgrowing it. I felt like I'd explored every aspect of the violin. I was loaned an instrument for a while and noticed the difference. Difficult passages in music became easier, and I progressed faster. When I had to give that violin back, I knew it was time for a new instrument.’
Which instrument from the collection did you choose and why?
‘I chose a violin built by Lambert Houniet in 1994. The violin has a clear tone, projects very well, and has a pleasant sound. It feels like anything is possible with this violin, and I can now truly discover what kind of musician I am. It truly feels like a collaboration; the violin helps me progress. It was also wonderful to meet Lambert Houniet himself when I brought the violin to him for a checkup. It felt special to get to know the luthier of my violin.’
Was it an easy choice?
‘When I visited The Netherlands Musical Instrument Foundation, I was quite overwhelmed by the number of beautiful instruments. I took four violins home and had no idea which one to choose. However, when I started playing in my own environment, it quickly became clear that the Houniet suited me best. Even when I had friends play the violins, the sound of the Houniet appealed to me the most.’
Was it difficult to say goodbye to your previous instrument??
‘A little bit. Everything felt very familiar on that violin, and I knew it inside and out. Yet, the excitement to discover a new instrument and to further develop as a violinist prevailed. The time was right to say goodbye.’
What event are you looking forward to playing with the Houniet?
‘I toured with Nationaal Jeugdorkest this summer. We played venues including the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and the Konzerthaus in Berlin. It was wonderful to be able to do that on this violin. With my string quartet, we have several great concerts planned. I also play in the Utrecht String Ensemble, and we'll be giving concerts with them as well. And next school year I'll be graduating from my Bachelor's program, which I'm really looking forward to!’
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