VIOLIN SUBSIDY

As a patron of the performing arts, I was flabbergasted beyond belief when I read the Music News item on Russian-born violinist Viktoria Mullova (“Defections & Reflections,” by Marc Shulgold, April 7).

I have yet to discover the rationale of a U.S. foundation donating a $349,000 Stradavarius violin to a much-acclaimed, well-established, world-renowned violinist who presumingly fled the Soviet Union for artistic freedom. Not only has she gained artistic freedom, but a strong financial backing as well in America.

Those funds could have been best utilized to bolster the sagging funds of our public school performing-arts program.

JOHN P. HARRIS

Hollywood