Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Attention all Small Cellists

The newspaper clipping is an old one I just came across while cleaning out my attic. Back in 1973 I was so excited about this vertical viola, that I gave a recital/demo of the instrument which was modeled after those of Carleen Hutchins. At the time I thought this instrument would be the VIOLA that could change the world of viola playing. And now over 30 years later, I still think violas should be played big and vertically. So, attention all small cellists, here is a dream instrument for you!

Guardians of the Bass Bar

How painful it is to see the bass bar mushed into the fragile top of a new violin. Actually, the maker has to be very careful not to let the crocodile clamps press down too hard or the top could be distorted. To insure the safe clamping, I invoked the aid of the Kitty-Sprites who are known to protect anything from anyone or anyone from anything. The violin is a 7/8th size instrument which is being made for Ann Guinee, wee wizard of Seattle.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Kingfisher


Here is the beginning of a violin with slightly smaller dimensions which will enable a slightly built young woman to play with physical ease and relaxation. The violin will be named the Kingfisher.