Art of Violin Making

by Chris Johnson

The Art of Violin Making is the major work for the craftsman, bringing into one volume a summary of essential information for the violin maker and player, as well as providing a historical reference. This book is essential reading for the violin maker, repairer and historian, providing a unique record of the history, social background, lives and work of the great violin makers of the past, combined with a clear practical guide to making violins. It includes: Part One: The Violin Makers, Part Two: The Workshop, Tools and Materials, and Part Three: Violin Construction.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

256 pages, Hardcover

First published February 26, 1999

Reviews

[Ben Stickley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent at describing how to make a violin.

[Jeff · Rating 3 out of 5]

Runs hot and cold. Good for many making details but not very good for dimensions, thicknessing, and tone (which are absolutely critical aspects). And I found the section on British violin makers rather dated and irrrelevant. I like the many good photos of violin making steps.

They give no data on classic instruments (thicknesses, arching heights, etc) and they suggest using Hutchins' plate tuning methods, which seemed to me like an unhelpful cop out because the really good makers that I know don't use this method.
And the varnish chapter goes over both oil and spirit varnishes with no recommendations, and hence leaves one quite confused about what they should do.

Having said that I do keep it on my workbench shelf and reach for it more often than other books when making violins.

[Hellkitten · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book to read if you are planning on making a violin. Obviously, no book can have EVERYTHING that you need to know about how to make a violin, given that the field is immensely vast, but this lays down the foundations in an easy to follow, easy to understand format. You will have a solid foundation after reading this book.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely well prepared and well presented book. A huge number of very clear photos illustrate virtually every aspect of violin construction, along with very clear text. An expensive book but well worth the money.

[Michael Seery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly informative and well put together book on an important topic.

[Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply put, the best, most educational book out there if you want to make violins.

[Vide · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly thorough, detailed and beautiful book. This is probably the most complete and understandable book on the market for this subject.

[Brian Swenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an amateur maker now working on violin No. 6, I have acquired many books, watched many videos. Of all my materials this is my most comprehensive reference.

[RichHawk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommend this book 💯

[Alexandra]

Love it!