180-year-old violin stolen after Kelowna concert

A rare and valuable Italian-made violin was reported stolen in Kelowna yesterday.

The instrument dates back to the 1840s, the Kelowna RCMP said in a media release.

It looks unique because of a distinctive one-piece back and it has three bows, two black and one red. There is also a microphone pickup jack and a single gold fine tuner attached.

It was in a silver BAM case crafted from carbon fibre, and it’s a recognizable case because of its backpack straps and stickers from various countries the owner travelled to.

"This violin holds not only significant monetary value but also immense sentimental value,” Const. Mike Della-Paolera said in the release. “Our aim is to reunite it with its rightful owner."

It was believed to have been stolen during the early hours of Aug. 3 after the victim finished a performance, and the theft likely took place in the lane behind the 700 block of Wilson Avenue. No surveillance footage was available.

“Subsequent to the theft, the victim engaged in a multi-day effort to retrace their steps, hoping to recover the stolen violin,” the release says.

Anybody who knows where the violin may be is asked to call the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300 and mention file number 2023-46714

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