The body of the Stroh violin consists of a long narrow piece of wood, the upper surface of which serves as the fingerboard. A flexible membrane, to which a straight metal horn is attached, is mounted at one side of the bridge. The concert model features a second, smaller horn that can be directed towards the player. The Strohs also produced a few violas, cellos, guitars, mandolins and ukuleles based on this principle. The Stroh violin continues to be played in dance bands and in the open air for busking.

John Matthias Augustus Stroh (b Frankfurt, 7 May 1828, d London, 2 Nov 1914) developed the instrument in London between 1899 and 1901. It was manufactured in London by his son Charles Stroh from 1901 to 1924, and then by George Evans up to 1942.

1 stroh violin

invented by John M A Stroh, London, England, 1899 - 1902 and manufactured by George Evans & Co. Ltd., London, England, circa 1920

mahogany, rosewood, aluminium, ebony, maple, bakelite, gut, 598 x 392 x 252 mm

labelled ‘STROHVIOLS / TRADE MARK / REGISTERED’

1998.60.130 Castle 203

The Stroh violin has a smaller adjustable horn so that the player can hear better while performing in a loud ensemble.