Alex Stone, Artist/musician, commissioned Nicola Amati 1649 model, finished in clear varnish.

I met Glyn at The New Forest Folk Festival 2022. Before I did, I had no idea that I actually needed a new violin, or indeed, (with the persuasion of my husband!) that I could have one commissioned from him! Anyway I did, and during subsequent meetings at Glyn’s workshop, we discussed what types of wood I would like used and other details, right down to the kind of sound and playability that I was after. Glyn kept me up to date with the whole creating process, sending me photographs at each stage.
When I collected the violin this January, I knew that it would need to be “played in”. However, even on the first day, the quality of sound was quite something. It was a hundred times better than my previous one - resonant, with rich and truly vibrant tones. I could “feel” the sound through my fingertips! And she (Genevieve!) felt lovely to hold and play.
I am an amateur fiddler, but this instrument has made me start to play with real ease, confidence and a lot more sensitivity. In fact the sensitivity is reciprocal in terms of dynamics and intonation, and has made doing vibrato feel a lot more natural too.
After nearly three months of playing now, her voice has matured considerably giving strong, deep and sweet tones. She really has exceeded expectations.
I am so happy to have made this decision. Glyn has made me feel included in every stage of the creation of this beautiful instrument, from the dimensions of the neck right down to the finishing varnish. He really is a great craftsman and it’s been a pleasure to get to know and do business with him.

19/03/2023