Archive

More detailed information about stringed instruments and the history of violin making.

Mittenwald: violin making “in the midst of the forest”

Roland Baumgartner, Basel: an expert dedicated to antique violins

“The finest approach to handling wood”: Hieronymus Köstler

The Classical violin bow (History of the violin bow, part II)

Violin makers and master violin makers: archive "D-F"

W.E. Hill & Sons: on the Mt. Parnassus of the art of violin making

The violin bow: a brief depiction of its history

Old Mittenwald violin. 1960's, orchestra violin

This orchestra violin is a good, recommendable Mittenwald violin that was handmade in the second half of the 20th century, perhaps an apprentice work, and is a good example of quality handcraftsmanship with a strong, balanced sound, dark, clear and rich in overtones. It was built after Stradivari patterns and is preserved with minor traces from playing crackfree and exceptionally well. The top of the instrument was made from medium grained spruce, the two-piece back is from mildly flamed maple. It is a good strong sounding, affordable handmade Mittenwald instrument from the traditional center of violin making in Bavaria.