A few months ago a remarkable man named Herbert Axelrod donated two Stradivari violins, a Stradivari viola and a Stradivari cello to the Smithsonian, creating what is now known as the Axelrod Quartet.

Priceless instruments an incentive for symphony. NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- Former book publisher and philanthropist Herbert Axelrod has offered to sell his rare collection of Italian string instruments to ...