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“Old Fiddle Chic:” Resurrected and Revitalized Instruments
Bringing Old Fiddles Back To Life
Years ago, a family approached me, asking for an “Old Fiddle.” I was bemused, as no one had ever asked for that before. Initially, I simply said, “I make new instruments from raw wood, and sell my own work.”
But they reiterated their request, and as I listened, I remembered that a friend had brought me a dilapidated instrument, literally in a bread bag, with the top tied off to prevent the loss of loose pieces. I offered to send them photos of this disaster, and if the fiddle was in the realm of what they were looking for, I would bring it back to life for them.
I sent the photos, and they were delighted: That was exactly what they wanted for their daughter. So…I “resurrected a dead fiddle,” and so far as I know, she is still playing it today.
I have done a variety of repairs of catastrophic damage, over the years, (two years ago, it was a bass that had been crushed by a car.) But they were always the customer’s instruments, and my main objective has continued to be new builds.
However, I recently inherited about forty neglected or damaged instruments, so I am beginning a “new chapter” in my career as a luthier. I will begin offering resurrected and revitalized instruments, priced individually, as I see fit.
The Following Instruments are the Beginning of the List:
Any instrument that does not have (SOLD) beside it is still available.,
Old fiddle #1… Cheaper trade instrument, but good sound. Very playable and clear. Ready for a fiddler! $600 with case.
Old Fiddle #2: Old trade instrument made in East Germany. Good, balanced sound. Good for either fiddling or classical player. $800 with case.
Old Fiddle #3: Label says, “Gagliano, 1732,” but I am pretty sure it is made in France, about 1900 or thereabouts. However, this one is a better-quality violin. Very good wood, and very good sound. $1,200 with Case.
More to come!