Violinmaker-in-Residence #6 The top and the back of the violin – referred to as “plates” – are carved into an arched form. The arch is a classic way to get maximum strength in a structure with minimum weight: think the…

Violinmaker-in-Residence #5 The ribs, or sides, of the violin are built around a form-board (link for more on this).  The rough blocks (4 corners and 2 ends) are spot-glued onto the form-board and the shape of the ribcage scribed on…

Violinmaker-in-Residence #4 The violin evolved with the use of woods that were readily at hand to instrument makers of their day: curly maple for the back, sides and neck, and spruce for the top. Although one can make good instruments…

Violinmaker-in-Residence #3 Choosing the model for the VSO violin was quite easy. I have known Jaime Laredo, violinist and Music Director of the VSO, for many years and have made copies of two of his violins. The Strad he used…

Violinmaker-in-Residence #2 The violin is designed to fit the human body, and allows the player to control pitch by stopping strings with the left hand, and control volume and tone color by using a bow with the right hand. The…

I was pleased recently to be invited by the Vermont Symphony Orchestra to be a violinmaker-in-residence for their 2016-17 season. The VSO has been looking for ways to involve their audience more deeply in the music making process. They thought…