Soloist Elina Vahala was playing the finale of a concerto during a Sinfonia Lahti concert in Finland when enthusiastic conductor Matthew Halls knocked the 18th century instrument from her hands
The dramatic moment a conductor accidentally knocks a priceless 18th century violin out of a soloist’s hands sending it crashing to the floor has been captured on camera.
The incident unfolded during a Sinfonia Lahti concert in Finland while violinist Elina Vahala played the finale of a concerto last Thursday. Conductor Matthew Halls accidentally struck the instrument as he enthusiastically led the orchestra – sending it flying out of Elina’s grip and toward the floor.
She appears totally shocked, with her hands jumping to cover her face as the violin flips in the air several times. But Elina was able to react in a split-second, getting her foot underneath the violin, softening the impact and preventing what could have been catastrophic damage.
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She then looks down in complete horror at the instrument lying on the ground. The orchestra continues playing until Mr Halls motions for them to stop while Elina crouches down to retrieve her beloved instrument.
The instrument in question is a rare violin which was made by Italian master Giovanni Battista Guadagnini in the 18th century. Similar instruments have been valued at between one and three million euros (£869,000 to £2.6million).
After the shocking accident, the concert was briefly paused while the valuable violin was checked before it was returned to Elina so the concert could continue. Though the violin appeared intact, the musician later said the sound had changed slightly, suggesting a small internal shift or a loosened seam.
“It was an incredible reflect that I managed to get my foot in the way,” Elina said. She added that she does not actually remember the moment itself and only noticed it later when she watched the video back.
She went on to explain that the violin is more than just a valuable instrument, describing it as being a “part of her”. She said the violin has adapted to her playing style over many years, explaining: “It’s an organis part of me”.
The instrument was later spent to a specialist for repair, who confirmed that the damage was minor and involved a seam that had come loose. Violin maker Jarkko Niemi said the outcome could have been far worse, noting that such falls can easily cause cracks or even break the neck of a violin.
Conductor Halls apologised for the accident, while the orchestra showed its support for the soloist. Elina said she holds no grudges and hopes to carry on performing with her restored instrument at upcoming concerts.
