Xavier Pleindoux, principal 2nd violin, Madison Orchestra, Wisconsin

The violin based on Paolo Maggini c.1630 that Helen made for me was a commission and I am extremely pleased with both the commission process and the final result. Helen was professional and thorough with her questions as well as knowledgeable and helpful with my questions during the step-by-step collaboration of the making process. The finished instrument has beautiful varnish, refined workmanship, rich tone, dark voice, powerful projection, and is easy to play. I very much enjoyed seeing and reading about the progress of the violin on Helen’s website and can wholeheartedly recommend Helen’s instruments.