You might think the most important critics of a newly finished violin are soloists, orchestral musicians, or serious collectors. In my workshop, however, the final judgment comes from creatures with whiskers, strong opinions, and absolutely no interest in market trends. Yes, my cats. Four-legged (in this case, three-legged, as one is a newly rescued cat) critics with very high standards. Now, Italian violins are beloved by musicians for good reasons — incredible tone, express

There’s something irresistible about a violin made in Cremona, Italy. Maybe it’s the centuries of history whispering through the workshop walls. Maybe it’s the way every instrument seems to come with its own secret personality. Or maybe, just maybe, it’s the fact that violin makers there start their day with espresso  and finish it listening to the wood sigh with satisfaction. Whatever the reason, musicians around the world lean in a little closer when someone says “handmade

Me:You look promising. Maple:I know. I turn it over, tap it gently, listen very carefully. The sound is good. Too good. This immediately makes me suspicious. Me:We could make a beautiful violin together. Maple:Let’s not get carried away. I start carving. Slowly. Respectfully. The maple is cooperative for about ten minutes, then suddenly decides to remind me that it has its own opinions. Me:Just a little more here. Maple:Absolutely not. The grain changes direction. My tool sli