Jupiter Strad ca. 1700

One of the highlights of my life as a violin maker happened last Saturday at the workshop in Claremont, CA. Arnold Belnick, famed violin soloist, former Hollywood player, and owner of Stradivari's "Jupiter" violin arrived to share his incredible instrument with the group. Michael handled the violin while we all looked on, seizing the opportunity to admire the design of the corners, stare into the depths of the varnish and wood, marvel at the perfect scroll, and soak in the aura of Stradivari's work. It's really hard to describe, actually. Even harder to describe is the feeling I had when I was given the chance to play the violin for the rest of the group (I knew that Grammy nomination would count for something one day :). The only thing I might compare to its sound is the experience of singing in an old European cathedral, in which the sound seems to go on forever, without any boundary. Even after the first bow stroke (did I mention that the bow was a Tourte?), the depth of sound that emanated throughout my body was something I've never experienced. I think it was the deepest, richest, warmest, most beautiful and resonant sound I've ever heard, and it was right there under my chin. Truly incredible. Thanks Jim and Mr. Belnick for the opportunity to play this instrument of Stradivari, the sound of which I hope never to forget. Its beauty will be an inspiration to me forever.

Darnton U.

photo by Ken Pollard
Last week's workshop with Michael D. was excellent as usual -- I had the time to work on my own project (#7), I got to geek out for a whole week with other violin makers, and I gained innumerable tricks and guidance from Michael. It's easy to stay on a plateau as I do a lot of the same kinds of repair work all year, but spending this week with other violin makers always pushes me to keep getting better, reminds me that there are other people out there doing what I do, and also reminds me of how much I love every aspect of building violins (well, except maybe joining plates . . . )!

Workshop in CA

Next week I'm headed out to Claremont, CA for a violin making workshop, an annual event for me at this point. It's led by Chicago maker Michael Darnton, a great guy and master of all things violin making -- tools, methods, geometry, physics, history, etc. I always come away with fresh inspirations and insights about the craft and where I'm going with it. It's a week when I get to build exclusively : no repairs, no phonecalls or appointments, no bows, just violin making. Plus, I get to hang out with other violin makers, which is a rare treat for me. Well, a rare treat for anybody I guess! So, 'til soon . . .

Cafe gig

Setting up to play with the Magnolia Sisters at Cafe des Amis tonight . . .(photo by Kristen Kordecki)