Luthier

Luthiers design and craft western classical stringed instruments (violin, viola, cello, double bass) and the bows used to play them. These expert artisans turn raw material into playable instruments and bows using their woodworking prowess and designing skills. While woodworking skills are learned through apprenticeship under a master luthier, the work of designing stringed instruments is often generations in the making. Each workshop may have closely guarded secret designs. A luthier’s craft is equally steeped in tradition as it is in innovation as they seek to improve their instruments.

Creating stringed instruments is a meticulous and time-consuming practice; attention to detail and patience are a must. The best luthiers are passionate about string performance, striving for each instrument they craft to produce even more beautiful music than the last. They also frequently serve as technicians for stringed instruments: re-hairing bows, making repairs, and upgrading old hardware to keep instruments (even ones that are hundreds of years old) in playing condition.