I am a maker and repairer of Violins, Violas and Cellos from my workshop in Shipham near Bristol, Bath, Weston Super Mare and Wells. My professional-level instruments are handmade from carefully selected, seasoned timber, using traditional violin-making methods and drawing inspiration from the great Italian makers, including Amati, Guarneri ‘Del Gesu’, Rogeri and Stradivari.
I welcome musicians looking to commission a new violin, viola or cello, as well as those looking for an instrument that is already available. If I don’t have something suitable in stock, I’m always happy to discuss your requirements and the possibility of making an instrument specifically for you.
Instruments need care throughout their lives. From routine adjustments and maintenance to more involved repairs and restoration, I work on violins, violas and cellos in my workshop in Shipham, Somerset.
With nearly 30 years of experience repairing stringed instruments, I take a careful and considered approach to every job. I’ll examine your instrument, explain what I believe needs doing and provide an estimate before any work is undertaken.
Whether your instrument needs a new bridge or soundpost, fingerboard work, crack repair, peg work or more extensive restoration, I’m happy to discuss what is required.
A good bow is an important part of a player’s equipment, and regular rehairing helps keep it performing properly. I rehair violin, viola and cello bows in my workshop, as well as carrying out repairs and adjustments where needed.
I also buy and sell bows, with a selection available for players at different levels.
I was given this violin to try out while my previous one was being serviced. I wasn’t looking for a new violin at the time but I was immediately taken with the quality of the sound – in particular the range of colours it could make, which was exactly what I was trying to develop in my playing.
After visiting several other makers, I ended up deciding on this one because I felt there was a lot of potential for the sound to develop, and after having it for 6 months I’m still finding even more depth and range.
The service was great and I was surprised at how reasonable the price was – it was a really good experience all round.