Saturday night, Alnwick Playhouse, and I find myself attending the ‘What A Wonderful World Festival’ on June 25. The 4-day festival highlighted the never-ending questions of sustainability. Speakers, artists and activists took to the stage to share their thoughts with us. Saturday night was a display of amazing artists forming…
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I wonder what the last thing was that you did where you were learning to do that something you have carried out for years, on auto pilot, but being shown how to do it ‘better’ by someone else? By ‘better’ I mean maybe more accurately, more efficiently, more simply, more…
Time at the bench is great but there are so many other ways to enjoy this rich subject. Favourites for me are ones that are worth sharing, and you never know you may be inclined to try! The book on my bedside table at present is a fabulous read by Helena Attlee…
I really do enjoy all aspects of my work, at the bench, chatting with clients, and also studying the instruments themselves. I feel incredibly lucky to restore instruments. (However, I know it wouldn’t appeal to everyone. Years ago chatting to a sheep farmer in a pub the ‘Farr Bay Inn’,…
Whatever you do “DON’T BUY ONLINE!!” I need to shout this from the rooftops! During the pandemic many retailers have urged musicians to buy online. I get it. They wanted to maintain sales even though they were occasionally closed for business, and unsure of the future. At one end of…
‘Dreary’ January has nearly left us and its time to look forward to 2022 with, hopefully, a little more clarity combined with freedom than we’ve had over the past 2 years! It’s probably also time to take a long hard look at your lovely instrument. In the last couple of…
Many Christmas musical events are happening but if any are cancelled and you are left feeling cheated, please take it from me………inspirational stuff is happening in Cambridge and every year they really do lift my spirits. So, if you have time or the inclination, please do check out King’s College…
When do I need a rehair for my bow? How does the bow feel? How does the bow look? Ask yourself these 2 questions and you’ll find the answer. Two beautifully rehaired bows ready to go When your bow has been rehaired with fresh new horse hair, as above, then your…
Well, that IS the question. A subject that is discussed again and again by violin makers, restorers and players. It comes down to personal preference, but often a player will choose an instrument to try based on its appearance (as well as budget!). For makers copying is very common; heads,…
When are the busiest times for players/musicians? When do you need your instrument to perform to the best of its ability? Summer offers us concerts and festivals indoors and out, and as covid rules have been relaxed this summer we have enjoyed many concert series getting back on track. The…