NZUGA

From earthquakes to music: A life on the fiddle.

The talk will introduce some of the more interesting aspects of the violin, its origins and the history of its development. The question "are old violins better then new ones?" will also be addressed. Why can't we copy the violins of Stradivari exactly and get the same sound? Research has been aimed at recreating the long-lost formulation of the varnish used by the Cremonese makers between 1550 and 1750.

Other points of discussion include: the price of violins, modern theories about how the violin works, and the speaker's contribution to this research. This will all be told within a story about his life, education, engineering, and progression to becoming a violinmaker, reasons for leaving New Zealand and his contribution to violin acoustic research. This should give a good balance between human interest and more technical matters.

REMAINING MEETING DATES IN 2009:

FRIDAY 5 JUNE
FRIDAY 2 OCTOBER (INCL AGM)

DETAIL OF OUR NEXT MEETING

BUFFET SUPPER

Friday 5 June 2009
Penthouse Suite, NZ House, 6.30pm for 7pm.

IThe talk will follow an informal supper. Admittance is at a charge of £16 per person. If paid in advance a discount of £3 (i.e. price £13 each) will apply. All very welcome to attend, member of NZUGA or not, but advance booking is required as space is limited.

New Zealand Universities Graduates' Association

The New Zealand Universities Graduates' Association was established with the objectives of furthering opportunities for graduates of New Zealand universities in the UK, establishing and suggesting useful contacts for members and visitors, maintaining a register of contacts, arranging social functions for members and partners, establishing links with Universities throughout New Zealand and the UK, and assisting in communications and providing guidance to University graduates from New Zealand in the UK.

We meet three times a year for a social event that includes a guest speaker. The venue is the penthouse of NZ House, with its unequalled panoramic views over London. The October meeting incorporates our AGM.