A busy month has flown by, with London visits and a full work schedule. The London trip was really in aid of my charity www.rabtrust.org . We’ve had a huge shake up this year taking on a new Chair and saying a fond farewell to two retiring trustees. I like…
Violins
The products I use in restoration are pretty specialized. From aged wood to fungi! Here’s a little insight. Wood Matching This can mean using wood (see picture above) that I have stored for many years that has darkened in colour and is age appropriate to the instrument I am working…
I want to share with you a few photos of a violin I worked on recently. It is a Matthew Hardie & Son, made in Edinburgh. The date has been written over so the exact date on the label is indistinguishable but by 1824 the business was being advertised as…
When violins were first made in the early 17th century, they were simpler than they are today. They had necks nailed into place that were not designed to be removed. The nails were handmade and substantial so the neck stock had to be large to accommodate the nail. Some of…
When players visit me to have their instrument assessed there are a few areas that I pay great attention to. In fact, there is a list in my head of all the boxes I need to tick. The check list starts with ‘are any seams unglued?’ and goes all the…
With the start of 2023 quite a few players have been getting in touch with instruments that they have not shown anyone for years. This is very exciting as it allows me an opportunity to share with them the history and story of their instrument. Some players know very little…
Violin making in this country is in safe hands. A quarter of a century ago, I was a committee member and part of a team who created the BVMA, the British Violin Making Association. We brought together every violin maker and restorer across the country by establishing this organisation, and…
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…
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…
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,…