Most of us will only see The Cannone 1743 del Gesu violin (once owned by Pagannini) on display in a glass case at the Palazzo Tursi in Genova, Italy.The instructor of this summer's one-week hands-on Violin Making Course in the Fraser Valley, Jonathan Woolston of Cambridge, UK is shown here holding this amazing Guarneri del Gesu violin along with the precise copy he made of it. The summer course will run July 18 - 22 near Chilliwack.
What an amazing learning experience it was working with Jonathan Woolston this past week!
ReplyDeleteDwight Moore
Excellent Course!
ReplyDeleteUseful violinmaking expert instruction by a Master Luthier with experience and the knowledge to really show the right tools and techniques. A huge time savings from trying to learn on your own. A chance to start from the beginning or build on the advanced skills you may already have. The course hands-on demonstrations were far better than trying to learn from books. Wood working shop time was available to practise what we learned at the demonstrations. Exceeded Expectations.
A highly recommended violinmaking course.
Stuart Shepard
Jonathan brought a depth of experience that was wonderful to behold. Every day we had chances to see him demonstrate a master's touch to the making of a fine violin. He also willingly shared with us in one-on-one conversations and presentations, and was extraordinarily accessible. Along with Dwight Moore, he planned a week not only of high quality shop work, but after hours get-togethers that included virtuso playing of many different instruments by violinist Calvin Dyck. I couldn't recommend the course more highly to anyone who is involved in the craft and art of violin making.
ReplyDeleteFred Moseley
Thoughtfully planed and presented this course is a must for any level,whether you whish to begin or are already skilled.To learn hands on from a master maker was an expierience I am looking forward to aquire again next year.This is a wonderfull opportunity for anyone with a kean intrest in violin making.
ReplyDeleteJonathan brought templates, which he had produced from firsthand experience with the original ‘PG’ Stradivari form in Cremona, and a fine Golden period violin, made by Antonio Stradivari. All participants were able to make precise copies of Jonathan's inside form and templates for the top, back and scroll. From resin castings of the top, back and scroll of this Stradivari violin, we made castings for each member of the course to take home as 3-D models to complement, tracings of the f-holes, and precise plans with measurements. Watching Jonathan making a violin while we worked on ours under his guidance was a terrific confidence builder. His instructional method is clear and efficient. The learning experiences shared during this class will allow us to motivate and assist one another in our future instrument building projects. Best wishes to each of you, Dwight Moore
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