This instrument was part of the Third Annual Contemporary American Makers Exhibition.  

 Each of my instruments is made entirely by hand, adhering to the ideals and the working methods of the early Italian masters, and embodying the highest standards of craftsmanship. Each instrument I make is a unique artistic creation--an original composition of harmony of line, form, color and materials. The tone qualities I seek are those of deeply satisfying warmth, richness and complexity, qualities often associated with older Italian instruments. Tonal richness is the secret to exceptional carrying power. As an artist, I feel a moral and social responsibility to create works that speak a universal language of beauty -- beauty inspired by nature -- that stand the test of time.

Represented on this site are photos of my work, shop notes and drawings, answers to the most frequently asked questions, a discussion of the numerous skills necessary to be a violin maker, a brief history of early Italian violinmaking, and proof that the art of violin making was not, after all taken with Stradivari to his tomb. An unbroken tradition, begun over four centuries ago still continues even in Eugene, Oregon.

Hear this viola played by Richard O'Neill >