This outstanding collection of fine old string instruments, in accordance with the donor’s wishes, is maintained as a working collection, with all but the rarest items being available for use by qualified students and faculty members. Important violin builders such as Francesco Stradivarius, Jacob Stainer, Allessandro and Ferdinand Gagliano, and Giovanni and Francesco Grancino are represented in the collection, as are bows by Dodd, LaFleur, Peccatte, Tourte, and others. The Lange collection has been augmented by other benefactors as well.
The curator of the collection, Herbert W. Myers, also teaches a variety of early instruments.