Ask Me Anything - 1

[@mickcarr2744]

Hi Brian, I've made archtop guitars or hollow bodied jazz guitars as some may know them, and they're made quite similar to how violins are made. The only real differences are the size and shape obviously, and the bracing inside the body. Theres also no soundpost.

[@yankee_doodle]

Find it interesting that you mentioned Graham Vincent violins. I admire his skills and as a matter of fact I'm the dude that he made those 2 wormy chestnut fiddles for. These can be seen in a few of his vids. Workmanship is great and they sound beautiful and are easy to play. Graham has a wealth of info that's very useful!

[@BrianTimmonsTX]

@@yankee_doodle Ah, then you’re one lucky dude! If he ever made cellos and I had money to burn, though…

[@robotustra]

To learn how to swim - the best is ... go and try to swim. Lot's of experience will come later. Real violin making secrets are not written in the book, even master teacher will not reveal you everything, because in the world of concurrency (aka capitalism) you will be the direct competitor of your teacher. Also purfling is not only for the edge protection. But you'll find it out later with experience. FYI: The maker, which made less than 50 instruments is considered a young maker with the corresponding price tag. Of cause there are exceptions.

[@Workingman-ww3lw]

I want to build a cello. But I know myself well and won’t finish it. I’ll be in the market for one soon. We should connect.

[@BrianTimmonsTX]

@@Workingman-ww3lw I’m a cellist myself! I’d have to make one first before I feel that the instrument is of a high enough caliber to put my name on. I’m still working on violin #1, and a friend has me booked to make him a viola next. I’m thinking a cello should happen after that.

[@Workingman-ww3lw]

@@BrianTimmonsTX ​​⁠ ​​⁠ Thanks for your concern. I can tell your work is just fine, it will get better as you go. I’ve been playing a few months on a rental made out of plywood. Anything you build will sound better than it. Contact me when you get your first born finish.

[@BrianTimmonsTX]

@@Workingman-ww3lw Shoot me an email at [e-mail] so we can talk further. 😀