Customer Reviews

The Making of Stringed Instruments: A Workshop Guide

5 star:		(1)
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3 star:		(1)
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This book is the clearest on the subject that I have read in English. In that respect, it was excellent.

On the other hand, the author is clearly not a professional. The approach presented is that of a hobbyist. For example, the cello shown in the book is made of cherry. The author suggests that this doesn't make much difference. This is simply nonsense. Some of the construction details, such a multi-piece cello neck and the use of newspaper in the joint between the belly and the ribs, are also questionable.

My advice is that if you're prepared to spend several hundred hours making an instrument that you can be proud of, get the right materials and use the right methods. If you just want a fiddle, go get one at a pawnshop.

Written primarly for those interested in making Violins & Cellos, the book also covers making Mandolins & Guitars. I believe that readers will find that although this book covers all areas of this subject the subect itself is so complex that the book will serve only as a starting point. But for anyone who has no experance making instruments this book is an excellant place to start learning. Highly recommended.