David Garrett sets fastest violinist record

The German-born 26-year-old performed Rimsky-Korsakov's Flight of the Bumblebee on the children's magazine programme, recording a time of 66 seconds compared to 80 seconds at normal speed. At his fastest, Garrett averaged over 13 notes per second.

The time was verified as accurate by Guinness adjudicators. It is a new world record, meaning other violinists can now compete to beat Garrett's time.

Garrett was in the news earlier this year after falling on his £500,000 Guadagnini while leaving the Barbican Centre. He has been loaned a replacement while his instrument is being repaired.

UK-based readers can watch his record-breaking attempt via the BBC's iPlayer before 3 June.

• Print
• Email to friend
• Discuss