Forster, William

   1) The first Violin maker of this now celebrated name, born 1713, died 1801.

   2) , born 1739, died 1808. This maker was very celebrated for his Violas and Violoncellos. He appears to have followed the Steiner pattern in 1762, and the Amati pattern in 1772. His common instruments were not purfled, second class purfled but still much inferior to the third class, "in which," says an authority, "everything was embodied to conduce to excellence and beautiful appearance and to the finest tone;" and again, "his instruments are second to none in merit and the best Europe has ever known, especially his amber coloured Violoncellos, which are renowned for mellowness, volume, and power of tone, equalled by few, surpassed by none." We need scarcely say that this opinion is rather strongly expressed, and may be considered partial. Without at all detracting from the real excellence of Wm. Forster's instruments, which is very great, we may confidently assert that the great Cremona Makers have had no rivals. Whether in power, purity, and sweetness of tone - or beauty of wood and workmanship- the best instruments of Nicholas Amati, Antonius Stradiuarius, and Joseph Guarnerius have never yet been equalled. Wm. Forster's Violoncellos have, however, (in England at any rate,) been held in high esteem both by players and amateurs, and have realised good prices.

   3) , the third of the name born 1764, died 1824, known as young Forster. His instruments are not so good as those of his father, but still excellent productions.

   4) , the fourth of the name, born 1788, died 1824. A good workman, but not equal to the second William Forster.