This is where I write about some of the broader ideas and events from the workshop and the world of violin making, including conferences I visit, interactions with other violin makers and musical events. Anything I think might be interesting to read.

I’m sometimes asked about how you train to be a violin maker. These days the old apprenticeship system has all but died out, and instead the training is done in a college setting. The students are typically a hugely mixed bunch of all ages and nationalities. People come from very diverse backgrounds; some are skilled …read more

I’ve hit a huge milestone, my 300th instrument! This was an occasion to count up exactly what I’ve made. These are the numbers: 85 full-size violins 15 small-size violins 114 violas (15 inch and over) 35 small-size violas (my own models, 15 inch and under) 51 cellos I count myself fortunate to have had a …read more