Making a Master Viola: A Unique, Wonderful World

[@youngbloodbear9662]

Wonderful work

[@kevinleeluthier]

The customer and I both think so. Thanks for noticing!

[@youngbloodbear9662]

@@kevinleeluthier can’t wait to see the video you mentioned with them playing it

[@kenthhamner2641]

I think you’ve demonstrated a level of craftsmanship here that is very rare! I was riveted watching this!

[@willy_wombat]

" Violas love old gauges ". Nothing sharper than nice old carbon steel. ❤❤❤

[@cjc4765]

The absolute best video of the hundreds I've seen on making a violin or in this case viola. Talk about hands of gold! For the wonderful people watching this, Kevin was noted by the most famous appraiser of our time and probably the greatest in history, Mr. Jacques Francais.A man that only looked at rare, old,multi million dollar instruments and pushed almost everything else away. What a feat! Great to see you again Kevin and you're actually looking better than ever! While on the subject, when I asked Herbert Goodkind what the hardest part was in making a violin, he had to think hard about it. I guess from watching this video,nothing is easy. But he said, the purfling is extremely difficult. Do you agree? Love the f -holes! What a signature. Even making this video had to be a difficult task. Thanks so much! -:)

[@kevinleeluthier]

It feels like I could have made another viola in the extra time I spent filming and editing this video. :) Purfling seems to be one of the rare things that I seem to be natural at doing. In violin making school the master first pronounced that no one could compare with Stradivari's purfling, so I took it as a challenge and he took it back. He said that my purfling was "too perfect" and to loosen up a bit because it looked like a machine had done it. And, believe it or not, artistically, he was absolutely correct. The hardest part for me? Probably gluing the back and belly on, all at once, in 45 seconds before the glue jells, especially on a cello. The next biggest challenge? I believe the same as it was for Stradivarius: Making and applying the dragon's blood and amber varnish. Yes, whether I make videos or note, I'm still here carving away almost every day. Thank you so much for your kind comments.

[@willy_wombat]

Music of the video is soo well chosen ❤

[@kevinleeluthier]

Thanks! Video-making takes more time than I ever imagined. = Hours to find and splice in the music. Thanks for watching!

[@jim212]

Gorgeous instrument!

[@JV-pj7dz]

Greetings, Kevin! I enjoyed every single second of the amazing artistry captured on this film. Your viola is magnificent! Thank you!

[@bobbervt6004]

Thanks Maestro, long time we were waiting for you 🎻🎻🎻

[@kevinleeluthier]

As of today, I believe I have my life back = it's a long story.

[@johncebasek6252]

Welcome back! I've been missing your videos. This video is a wonderful way to start a "Civic Holiday" Monday here in Ontario, Canada.

[@picksalot1]

Beautiful work. It was fascinating to see which tools you used, how you marked the wood, and when you made the cuts. Got to admit, I found the the white color of the wood, before it was finished, to be strikingly beautiful. If I were a contemporary solo Violinist, I might very well have chosen that color. It would be very eye catching on stage. Thanks for giving us a look at your method for making such a lovely instrument.

[@kevinleeluthier]

I've had the comment made about how beautiful white instruments are, many times by many people. And they truly are beautiful, and it's a wonderful experience..., yet if left unvarnished, they quickly stain, absorb moisture and then begin to crack because they are not protected from the elements. Yet, if a clear varnish is applied, they seem to lose all of that natural beauty and character, and even part of their voice. (The Dragon's Blood and amber varnish really does help bring back their voice and makes it better than ever in the concert hall) = As beautiful as their naked form may be, my instruments always leave my shop with their clothes on. :)

[@picksalot1]

@@kevinleeluthier It's too bad the white instruments can't retain their stunning color and get the tonal benefits that the vanish provides. Maybe someone should research a solution. I'm a guitarist, and there are White Maple Guitars that seem to retain their color, but as far as I know, the Finishes used are different from those used on fine Violins, Violas, etc. Guitar Finishes on fine instruments are typically Oil and Wax, Shellac, French Polish or Nitrocellulose Lacquer. On lower priced models, Polyurethane and Polyester.

[@vital_miakki]

Thanks a lot, Maestro Kevin! Тhis is the best video i have ever seen! Peace and Love!

[@kevinleeluthier]

Peace and Love.

[@stevehartkopf9114]

The man is back!

[@visualtrigger2469]

This was exceptional to watch!

[@JoshuaThomas-yp3hy]

I'm going to say this, not to brag, but to illustrate how amazingly impressive your craftsmanship is. I have made a few electric guitars from scratch, right down to winding my own pickups, routing the cavities by hand, etc. But what i witnessed here is true artistry that few can ever come close to matching. Even comprehending how precise you have to be in every step is a task all by itself. I tip my hat to you sir!

[@bensprinks]

Wow! Beautiful at all levels.

[@timhardwick5661]

You are absolutely incredible! Thank you for your content!

[@montylatham739]

Absolutely a joy to watch. The person who is getting the Viola is very lucky. How many Violins have you made?

[@kevinleeluthier]

I've made around 150 violins. = I'm just getting started.

[@montylatham739]

That! Is easy to see..

[@Gonzalo_Chalo_Luthier]

👏👏Wonderful!! I have recently finished my first Viola and i'm amazed by the result, That said it was by far the most demanding instrument i made yet! No doubt each different Viola has its unique personality!

[@kevinleeluthier]

Congratulations! and yes, yes yes. So much flavor, and so much personality!

[@Gonzalo_Chalo_Luthier]

@@kevinleeluthier thank you! As always your videos inspire me to keep on working and learning! eternally grateful for that! 🙏🙌👏👏👏👏

[@sheepyre]

Truly, a wonderful world you show us.

[@hinga9895]

Congratulations you did a great work of art. This is one of my favorites videos of all time. Hoping more videos like this are to come

[@baddinosaur1548]

I enjoyed every minute.

[@kenthhamner2641]

The figure in those woods!

[@V-oe9zr]

Master 🙏 Thank you. Perfection 🕊

[@michelnagumaqmorton]

Excelent Kevin , Merci ! What a great video !

[@ny10980]

How are you? Nice to see this new episode appear all of a sudden. And as you meticulously sculpt away it's obvious that you are the doer more than the talker.

[@kevinleeluthier]

That's what makes these videos so difficult to make, and take so long. = I work twice as slow and I'm twice as stupid whenever I'm talking! :)

[@ny10980]

@@kevinleeluthier But talking or sculpting, this makes you most unique. And much appreciated!!.

[@JamieTateJamieTate]

The enjoyment and love you show in all your videos keeps me coming back to watch more. You made a beautiful instrument!

[@brickstreetsprockets]

Ya back awesome welcome back maestro

[@dalepiwek]

Absolutely astonishing. I build electric guitars brother and it's a good thing I chose that field because I would like to get something done in this life. It would take me 5 more to only approach the ocean floor of your ability. Thank u🤘

[@kevinleeluthier]

Each art, no matter how simple it may appear, has its "secrets" and challenges. Carry on! I think I love an electric guitar in the hands of a master as much as anyone!

[@dalepiwek]

​@@kevinleeluthier I repurpose wood, only use hide glue, do my absolute best joinery and maybe top it off with a nut from whale eardrum bone and a titanium truss rod. In the end I still think Mr. Stradivari would reprimand me😂 it's this imaginary criticism that really keeps me humble in regard to my limitations. Thank you once again Maestro

[@dedik8SKB]

Incredible! I've been making guitars and now teaching it, and I'm very inspired by your work! Glad you're back.

[@ilnokaly]

this is lovely Kevin !

[@kenthhamner2641]

Impressive! Really!

[@MikkaGrytviken]

Amazing job ! 👍

[@deadmanswife3625]

Long time no see Hey Kevin

[@kevinleeluthier]

I have made a couple instruments since my last video, but I have missed everything else. :)

[@dalepiwek]

Some of us don't actually understand what several hundred hours is. Its a dedication to the glory of God. And the ease on the ears of our fellow men. Right?

[@kevinleeluthier]

"Ease on the ears" peace to the soul, and every other emotion that can only be realized through music. :) Thanks for you comment.

[@dalepiwek]

​@@kevinleeluthierit is I that am grateful!

[@mellissadalby1402]

Damn, I used to think my Viola sounded pretty good, but after hearing that one, I realize there is a great step up in performance. I'm sure some of that tone is in your hands, but that instrument sure sounds wonderful!

[@kevinleeluthier]

These were the very first notes played after varnishing. A few days after this, I decided to carve another bridge and soundpost and WOW! Just wait!

[@ASIFHUSSAINMUZIK]

What is the use or practical sense of inlays on a violin? Please explain.

[@dalepiwek]

I'm not qualified to suggest anything but if you're talking about around the outside my guess is that it's to stiffen the edge and hopefully prevent fractures. I've actually always wanted to know myself😂

[@kevinleeluthier]

The inlayed pufling around the edge serves two main purposes: It literally frames the work of art; even more than a picture frame around a painting. Take the purfling away and a violin looks oddly plain and loses all of its "character." The other, is that it forms a physical barrier, with its grain running in the opposite direction where it matters the most, especially for the spruce of the belly = if and when the varnish wears off (which is common, especially for old instruments) it helps stop moisture and cracks from getting into the body of the instrument where almost all of the movement and sound are produced. Also, if the edge of the instrument is hit hard, the edge may break yet this barrier usually protects the body of the instrument where it matters the most and the edge is glued back on.

[@cjc4765]

It strengthens the sides.

[@dalepiwek]

@@kevinleeluthier a reply from the master!! 🙏🎻

[@ASIFHUSSAINMUZIK]

@@kevinleeluthier thank you so much for such explanation. Kindly thanks

[@Nikkuuu69]

I'm so happy to see you back Kevin! It's still hard to believe that these instruments are made by hand. I'm curious to know how these instruments are appraised, since there seems to be a stigma around old instruments being 'better', but this instruments sings better than my own viola! Is the price typically set by the luthier or does it get appraised by an external party? Once again, a pleasure to see your craftsmanship.

[@kevinleeluthier]

Instruments are appraised for the value that a dealer believes they can reliably sell for on the open market, and this is based more upon who made the instrument and when, more than anything else. This isn't fair, and yet as Jacques Francais explained to me, "And what happens if I appraise that $800 violin that sounds like a million dollars for a million dollars, and yet is made by an unknown maker, and it later loses its voice? Which does happen with unknown maker's instruments. What's it worth then, and what happens to my reputation?" As far as my own instruments: My second violin sold for $75, my third $80. Years later, I turned down $55,000 for a violin that I was selling at the time for $7,000 because it had been pre-contracted. A couple years later, I sold a particularly wonderful violin for $17,000 the day after the varnish was dry (they had also pre-contracted it and put half the money down), and that violin was resold a few years later for $104,000. And yet, I just sold a violin this past year for $28,000 that was (in my opinion) just as wonderful, if not more. Jacques Francais believed that I would live to see $50,000-$100,000 for all of my future violins (that was in 1999), if not more, and even higher for my violas and cellos. This viola is currently worth $40,000 because a fine violin, viola or cello is worth what the customer is willing to pay, (even though it might sell for two or three times that amount next year). The owner of one of my other violas appraised in Manhattan for $35,000 has repeatedly turned down cash offers exceeding $65,000, and some consider it to be the finest viola in existence. I have also been known to "cut deals" for struggling musicians, which is just one more reason why no major dealer has been willing to appraise my instruments these past few years.

[@Nikkuuu69]

@@kevinleeluthier Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed response. I think you verified what I was thinking, that this is a very unique industry, and the value of any instrument can fluctuate depending on time, or how anyone might feel about the instrument. Definitely not based on a simple logical grading system! I'm still happy you're getting paid enough to keep doing what you love (I hope) and watching someone build an instrument from scratch is just a sight to behold. Thanks again !

[@mellissadalby1402]

I appreciate your attention to the details of the build, I hope it makes "Richard Gaspar" burst into tears of joy and marvel at the mastery of the instrument when they try it out! WOW, where did you get a piece of sandpaper big enough to cover a table? I want to thank you for advice you have given in so many of your videos, it has helped me as a Violin player and helped me to properly care for my instruments. I love how you did the corner blocks, very tidy and they look very strong. What do you use for a "Light sealer" on the inside?

[@kevinleeluthier]

The sandpaper comes from a large belt sander = industrial supply company. If you aren't picky on size, they sometimes have inexpensive discontinued belts. I'll have to cover sealers and varnish in depth at some point in time, but for now, the first inside sealer is "usually" ground bones and purified tobacco juice, then a light spirit varnish made of alcohol, shellac, venetian turpentine, elemi, gum gamboge, dragon's blood, and a dozen other small optional ingredients > the why, wherefore, and how to vary the ingredients, etc., really is an all-or-nothing project. It's not as much that it's a secret, as that it will take me months to do it properly because there is so much more to varnish than meets the eye. I vary the ingredients and/or ratios on almost every instrument. This is one of the main reasons why I play every instrument in the white before varnishing. Thanks for watching!

[@jthepickle7]

When all the rib and lining parts are bent 'just right' they just sit there. Wouldn't this aspect benefit from a little intentional 'tension' by under/over bending some of the parts, with hopes of affecting the sound quality?

[@kevinleeluthier]

Everything effects the sound quality :) yet since the glue is only applied to one side of the linings, it effects the 'tension' as much, or more than anything. Of course the inside sealer also effects the tension, then the outside sealer brings it back most of the way.... = in the end, bending the linings to match the ribs 'just right' seems to work out the best (at least for me with my sealers, varnish, and other procedures, etc.). Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@youngbloodbear9662]

The algorithm betrayed me, i see i missed the first one

[@kevinleeluthier]

To bypass the algorithm, you can tell KZbin to "Ring the Bell" when you subscribe to my channel. Thanks for watching, and this comment!

[@mellissadalby1402]

I wish I had 1/10 your skill. If I did, I would buy a Viola "in the white" and finish it up. But it needs the fingerboard glued on, and planed and contoured (a master job even there), the Nut carved and glued in. The pegs need to be fitted and last but not least, it of course then needs the proper varnish. Do you prefer a spirit varnish or oil varnish? And of course I would need to carve a bridge.

[@kevinleeluthier]

It's really more about having the proper tools and experience than "skill." OK, love, patience and endurance also matter. :) Don't underestimate varnish. It takes just as much if not more skill and experience than everything else put together. In reality, the "varnish" of Stradivarius, Guarnerius, and myself is a process that involves both spirit and oil varnishes put together. It has taken me a lifetime to get where I am, and someday I will try to spend the hundreds of hours that it would take to share everything. Thanks for watching!

[@wmcrash]

Are you ever tempted to just attach a blade to the surface gauge and level ribs that way?

[@kevinleeluthier]

Oh, I would if I could! I even tried it with a razor sharp router once. :( I've tried a lot of "innovative" and even "unconventional" approaches over the years and this is where I've ended up, right back where Stradivari and Guarneri both ended up. If I'm following your approach correctly: if the blade is set sideways, the pressure necessary to cut through the rib cracks the flamed ribs instead before getting halfway through. It's amazing how fragile the ribs are before the linings are glued in. Or, if the blade comes down from the top, the flamed maple still "chunks" out no matter how light the cut = This video is fast motion and it's difficult to tell, but I have to ease my way around the ribs taking small bites, and at the same time pushing down fairly hard on the plane with a firm hand. Thanks for your thoughts! And just because something didn't work for me, doesn't mean that it won't work for you. :) = Keep innovating!

[@Harry-d4n]

People take the mick out of this guy but hes a master craftsman

[@markkozz62]

would love to know your knowledge on the ingredients, and amounts on the varnish, most interesting, Thank you

[@kevinleeluthier]

It's really quite involved and involves about 19 layers (many of them very different in ingredients and process). I have shared some of it in different documentaries and in my replies to other comments, yet to do it justice would be a huge undertaking, yet, Someday....

[@mikehayes2233]

Thanks for showing us your talents!! Amazing work!! Of course I clicked like and going to subscribe BUT I already one!! One question: 1.) I what country do your reside?? And if it’s the USA approximately!! Thanks again!! I promise I will return soon!!

[@theinfamouscletusherringbo8134]

I was trying to find an F hole like this and could not. Is this your own design? 14:00

[@waimarche8673]

If lefty viola is bestter~

[@johncebasek6252]

At 7:22 - Voilá! A Viola (or the beginnings of one... 😄)

[@kevinleeluthier]

Yes. Its life has just begun, and it simply gets better with age. :) So one might ask, "When is it really finished?"

[@johncebasek6252]

@@kevinleeluthier I would say "When it's in the customer's hands". It's moved out, it's on it's own and only comes back home for the holidays (or for an adjustment or two).

[@kevinleeluthier]

@@johncebasek6252 And I love it when they come home to visit. And for those who are not aware, every new instrument, no matter how old the wood or perfect the construction, needs to be checked up on and almost always have its soundpost re-adjusted at least once.

[@johncebasek6252]

@@kevinleeluthier My violin, which is from a Bulgarian luthier (but bought in Canada) needs a 'day at the spa'. I've done my best to keep it clean, the pegs maintained with a little peg paste, the bridge straight when I change my strings, but I can feel a bit of stickiness where obviously missed cleaning - I use Hill Varnish Restorer once in a blue moon to keep it clean. But there's rosin forming under the bridge and I don't want my violin to look like Doug Kerchaw's after a gig. 🤣And my bow is acting up, the screw doesn't turn smoothly and my mom bought it for me before she died, so it has great sentimental value.

[@kevinleeluthier]

@@johncebasek6252 Other than what's mentioned in "How to Really Clean and Polish a Fine Violin" after all these years, I'm going to take an old friend's advice and try Renaissance micro-crystalline wax-polish. I'll let you know how it goes. As far as a bow screw not turning smoothly, I'll have to make a video on troubleshooting, yet in the meantime: the most common problem if you've already put a little naptha soap on the threads (to lubricate them), is that the threads of the eyelet are worn out and the eyelet needs replaced. Good luck!

[@matthewroszkowski4674]

you need a good pair of surgical loupes that give you a proper working distance to save your neck and back in the future. Money well spent over the stupid off the shelf magnifiers.

[@brunoleal9592]

Excelente trabalho, o fundo não é em spalted nem quilted maple, é flamed maple. O tampo é em pinho, seja viola ou violino tem de levar sempre pinho, curiosamente não pode ser todo em pinho pois o som seria horrível.

[@kevinleeluthier]

Something probably got lost in the KZbin translation. = Yes, flamed maple for the back, and spruce for the belly (some countries call it pine) for the belly. Thanks for watching!

[@michaelmcnamara7292]

Beautiful work