About this instrument 300th Anniversary Strad Series Antonio Stradivari looms large in the life of any violinmaker working with traditional design and process. How does one deal creatively with this 800-pound gorilla in the room? In order to study, learn…
Guadagninis Galore!
G. B. Guadagnini Through the Eyes of a Modern Maker An exhibit of violins and violas by Douglas Cox Stamell Strings, Amherst, MA June 3-28 Wine & Cheese Opening, June 5, 5pm 18 Kellogg Ave., Amherst, MA (413) 256-0936 •…
Shopping Advice
Posted by Laurie, Doug’s Business Manager. We frequently hear from prospective clients who express their frustrations, and sometimes unhappiness, with the process of shopping for an instrument. As a reluctant fan of the TLC reality TV series “Say Yes to…
Playing In New Instruments
When a new violin or viola, cello or other instrument is first set up, we photograph it, audio-test it, measure it and describe it. When these things are done we put a chin rest on it and play it a…
Mystery Fiddler
Spied on San Francisco Street We recently received this email message from a client in San Francisco: “Hi Doug & Laurie, I came across this fabulous player today outside my office in downtown San Francisco. Her sound filled up the…
Matching Fiddles with Players
The Northern Roots Festival is a one-day hometown event in Brattleboro, Vermont every January. Local traditional musicians and some from out of town gather for performances, workshops and sessions, with a sold-out evening concert. It’s produced by the Brattleboro Music…
Musical Instrument Insurance
We recently had a conversation with our insurance carrier, being in the unhappy position of having to file a claim for two violins damaged during shipping. I have spoken with many instrument owners who are un- or under-insured and I thought I would share what I have learned.