A new documentary captures the fascinating connection between two talented violinists, Daniel Lozakovich and Ivry Gitlis, as they are brought together by the historic Stradivarius violin known as the Sancy.
Lozakovich, born in 2001, and the late Gitlis, who passed away at the age of 98 in 2020, share not just a passion for music, but also the exquisite instrument, the Sancy, crafted by the legendary violin maker Antonio Stradivari in 1713. Gitlis played the Sancy for over six decades, infusing it with life and artistry. When Lozakovich took over this precious violin in 2022, bestowed upon him by luxury goods conglomerate LVMH, it marked the beginning of a new chapter for both the instrument and the young musician.
The review of the documentary, published on March 5, 2025, at 06:30 and updated later the same day, delves deep not only the story of the Sancy but also the broader questions surrounding the value and characteristics of such iconic instruments. With its weight of 350 grams and 35 centimeters length, the weighty heritage of the Sancy is both literal and metaphorical, as it carries the history of music within its strings.
Among the documentary's major themes is the inquiry about what sets these mythical instruments apart from modern violins. The film poses several pivotal questions, such as: What intrinsic values do historical violins possess? How does their sound evolve and improve over centuries?
The documentary's exploration does not shy away from the complexity of these questions. It raises the specter of the exquisite craftsmanship of Stradivari and why his instruments continue to hold such allure among musicians and collectors alike. The Stradivarius, with its storied legacy, has long been coveted for its tonal richness and historical significance.
Lozakovich's reflections on this connection to Gitlis and the Sancy add layers to the narrative. The young violinist was quoted, emphasizing the importance of this instrument to his current musical identity: "I feel linked to Gitlis every time I play the Sancy. It’s not just wood and strings; it’s history.” These sentiments echo throughout the documentary, reaffirming the bond across generations and the spirit of collaboration within the world of classical music.
The film captures some beautiful musical moments, showcasing the performances of both Lozakovich and Gitlis. It serves as homage to the legacy and artistry of both musicians, illustrating how their paths, though separated by time, have intersected through this single thread—the Sancy. Their distinct interpretations breathe new life and expression, underlining the narrative of continuity within the tradition of classical music.
Critics of the documentary note, though, the potential for the structure to confuse some viewers. The esoteric elements woven throughout the narrative seem to add layers of interpretation, sometimes veering toward incomprehensibility. Balancing the joy of experiencing exquisite music with dense philosophical inquiries can be challenging.
Nevertheless, the documentary succeeds on several fronts—most prominently by bringing attention to the extraordinary craftsmanship of historic violins like the Sancy, the musicians who have played them, and the ever-important dialogue surrounding the evolution of music through time. The portrait of Lozakovich's connection to Gitlis creates not just admiration for their respective talents, but also reverence for the instrument linking them.
The documentary stands as both tribute and investigation, offering insight not only for classical music aficionados but also for those who may be new to the genre. The conversations provoked by the film about the intrinsic value of historical instruments highlight how objects from the past continue to shape our present artistic expressions.
With its engaging storytelling and rich musical legacy, the documentary on Lozakovich and Gitlis remains relevant as it encapsulates cultural questions pertinent to the music community. Both violinists are portrayed with depth, shining light on their contributions to music history.
This poignant story of connection, art, and time reflects the broader narrative of classical music—a genre steeped in tradition yet continually rejuvenated by new generations of artists.