Services
RESTORATION & REPAIR
BUYING AN INSTRUMENT
TONAL ADJUSTMENT & SETUP
NEW MAKING
Bespoke Making
Violins, violas and cellos made by hand in the workshop, each individually crafted with the player in mind.
William’s instruments draw on the work of the great Italian makers, with detailed study of original instruments informing their proportions, construction and appearance. Every instrument is made individually, from the careful selection of the wood through to the final application of varnish.
For bespoke instruments, particular attention is given to the player’s physique, playing style and requirements. Proportions, dimensions and setup can be tailored to create an instrument that sits naturally with the player, helping to reduce unnecessary tension and strain and supporting comfortable, sustainable playing.
How the bespoke making process works
1. Initial Consultation
The process begins with a conversation about your playing, musical needs and aspirations. William takes the time to understand your playing style, physical requirements and aesthetic preferences, establishing a clear direction for your instrument.
2. Design & Proportions
Drawing on his knowledge of historical Italian instruments, William develops a design tailored to you. Proportions, dimensions and details are carefully considered to create an instrument that feels natural and comfortable to play.
3. Select materials
The finest tonewoods are carefully selected for their quality, appearance and acoustic properties. Every material is chosen with consideration for the instrument's intended sound, character and construction.
4. Craftmanship
Your instrument is handcrafted in the workshop, with each stage of construction carried out with precision and care. From shaping the wood to the final application of varnish, traditional techniques and attention to detail guide the making process.
5. Final Set Up
Once complete, the instrument is carefully set up and assessed for its sound, response and playability. Final adjustments ensure that it meets your individual requirements, resulting in an instrument made with a clear understanding of the musician who will play it.
Restoration & Repair
Careful restoration of violins, violas and cellos, from historic instruments to instruments in regular use.
Every instrument requires an individual approach, guided by its history, condition and intended use. With decades of experience, William specialises in the restoration of fine Cremonese instruments, combining traditional techniques with a deep understanding of historical construction and materials.
Each restoration begins with a careful assessment to identify damage, structural concerns and previous repairs. Original materials and historical features are preserved wherever possible, with every intervention carried out with precision and consideration.
The aim is to protect the instrument’s character, integrity and tonal qualities while returning it to a condition in which it can be played and enjoyed for generations to come.
Tonal Adjustment & Setup
An instrument's setup can make a significant difference to the way it responds and sounds. Careful adjustments can influence its resonance, projection, balance and ease of playing, helping to bring out its individual character and potential.
William works closely with players to understand how their instrument feels and responds, tailoring adjustments to its characteristics and the needs of the player. This may include the selection and fitting of bridges and soundposts, alongside finer adjustments to achieve an even, powerful and responsive result.
Each element is considered in relation to the instrument as a whole, with changes made carefully and methodically. The aim is to achieve a natural, balanced response across the strings, combining clarity and warmth with the projection and control required by the player.
Whether addressing specific playing difficulties or refining an instrument for performance, William's approach is guided by careful listening, practical experience and a commitment to bringing out the best in every instrument.
Buying An Instrument
A carefully selected range of violins, violas and cellos is available, including both historic and contemporary instruments by English, Italian, French and German makers. Each instrument has its own character, offering a variety of tonal qualities, playing responses and aesthetic qualities to suit different musicians and their individual needs.
Finding the right instrument is a personal process. Whether you are a professional musician looking for a particular sound, a student seeking an instrument to grow with, or a collector interested in the work of a specific maker, William offers considered, individual guidance to help you find the right match.
With an understanding of both the practical demands of playing and the qualities that distinguish individual instruments, William can help you explore the available options and assess their suitability. There is an opportunity to discuss the instrument's history, condition and characteristics, as well as any considerations around setup or future adjustment.
To discuss an instrument or arrange an appointment, please get in touch with William.
How the buying process works
1. Initial Consultation
The process begins with a conversation about your playing, experience and requirements. Whether you have a clear idea of the instrument you are looking for or would welcome guidance on where to begin, this helps establish the qualities that matter most to you.
2. Instrument Selection
Based on your needs, William can suggest suitable instruments to explore. An appointment provides time to examine and play each instrument, allowing you to consider its sound, response and feel in a relaxed setting.
3. Try & Compare
Comparing different instruments can be particularly helpful in understanding their individual strengths and discovering what feels most natural to you.
4. Assessment & Setup
Once you have found an instrument that feels right, William can discuss its condition, setup and any further adjustments that may be beneficial. The aim is to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the instrument and confidence in your decision.
5. Making Your Decision
Every musician's needs are different, and the process is guided by your individual priorities, with the time and attention needed to make an informed choice.