Over seven days (56 hours), François will cover the theory and practice of preparation and varnishing wood for violin making. Participants will investigate methods using classical materials (particularly focussing on the recreation of historical practice) as well as techniques using modern materials. The course includes the study of the use and effect of light on each stage of the life of an instrument, including evaluation of historical instruments. Seventy percent of the course time is spent on practical work.

Held from July 13th – 20th 2019 at The Scots School in Bathurst, NSW, Australia, this is promising to be a illustrious gathering of some remarkably talented and internationally renowned minds. The congress is the first international Luthier and Archetier gathering in the southern hemisphere. It is hoped that the congress will inspire, inform, connect and maintain the creativity and professionalism of all participants. Visit www.alacongress.com

Over seven days (56 hours), François will cover the theory and practice of preparation and varnishing wood for violin making. Participants will investigate methods using classical materials (particularly focussing on the recreation of historical practice) as well as techniques using modern materials. The course includes the study of the use and effect of light on each stage of the life of an instrument, including evaluation of historical instruments. Seventy percent of the course time is spent on practical work.

Over seven days (56 hours), François will cover the theory and practice of preparation and varnishing wood for violin making. Participants will investigate methods using classical materials (particularly focussing on the recreation of historical practice) as well as techniques using modern materials. The course includes the study of the use and effect of light on each stage of the life of an instrument, including evaluation of historical instruments. Seventy percent of the course time is spent on practical work.

British Violin Making Association 2019 Oxford Conference: Early Violin Making in Northern Europe, 1560-1725. This year’s conference brings together experts on the seventeenth-century Northern European schools of making from around the continent, and celebrates the interrelationships and stylistic commonalities that exist between French, Dutch, British, Flemish and Belgian makers. Taking place at the usual venue of the Catholic Chaplaincy in Oxford, the two day event will include round table discussions and an informal exhibition of instruments.

Cremona’s annual music fair runs from 27-29 September 2019, and as usual forming a meeting place for itinerant violin aficionados from all around the world. What more can we say… http://www.cremonamusica.com

Halsway Manor is the National Centre for Folk Arts and runs a number of residential arts and crafts courses.(halswaymanor.org.uk). It is a great venue with a workshop big enough for 10–12 people. This initial course will run for just 5 days, but the workshops will be open for extended hours. We want to offer the opportunity for people already skilled to the level of graduating from violin making college to feel confident to also work on bows.