William John was born in London in 1961. In 1977 he started working at Ealing Strings, one of Europe`s largest workshops. Working alongside Thomas Pilar from the famous Bohemian Violin making family, William gained vast knowledge from makers such as Premysl Spidlen and the late William Luff.
William concentrates on the detailed restoration of fine Cremonese Instruments such as Stradivari, Guarneri, Amati, Bergonzi and many other great Italian, English and French master Violin makers of the 17th and 18th Century.
This proved an invaluable experience and a wonderful insight into the tonal qualities of the classical period of violin making.
Travelling Europe and meticulously sourcing the finest Balken and Carpathian Maple plus Spruce from the South Tyrol for its superb acoustic properties.
William makes his own varnish which is an absolutely vital ingredient to fine instrument making and restoration.