A violinist plays for her father. A singer takes requests. In hospitals and hospices, bedside performers offer a new kind of ...

Promising violinists can get their hands on a Stradivarius and other 18th century instruments through a lending program out of Chicago.

The violin, made over 300 years ago by a legendary luthier, had been expected to sell for a higher price. The proceeds will go toward a scholarship program at the New England Conservatory.

Edward Elgar knew the violin inside and out—he played it before turning to composing, crafting music that is both technically ...