About
I’ve come to realize that the interaction of the bow and violin (or viola/cello/bass) is like a dance between two equal partners… but it is the bow that leads. Every musical impetus, articulation or direction of phrase, is first initiated in the bow arm, travels through the bow and is expressed through the strings to the instrument. In this way the bow is not a mere accessory. It is the other half of your instrument and plays a crucial role in expressing your artistry. After all, without the bow, the violin would be plucked.
In 1995 I began an Artist Diploma in historical violin performance at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. My teacher, Jeanne Lamon, director of the Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra, was impressed with the baroque violin my father had recently made for me and encouraged me to try my own hand at instrument making. She introduced me to Stephen Marvin, her colleague in Tafelmusik and a fine maker of historical bows. Stephen and I quickly became friends as he showed me his working methods and models that he was making for clients around the world. Now almost 30 years later Stephen and I are still good friends and I’ve achieved some of the same recognition internationally. In addition to making bows for many fine musicians, I have received commissions from the Jeanne Lamon Instrument Bank (Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra), Laurier University, the Calgary Bach Festival Society, the United States Airforce Strings and most recently, the Canimex Foundation.
Services
I specialize in making and repairing high-quality string instrument bows for musicians of all levels. My services are tailored to meet the needs of each client, ensuring every bow is crafted or repaired with the utmost precision and care. If you seek advice about an issue you are having with your own bow, or are interested in commissioning a new one, I’m always here to help.
Work
Rehair & Repair
When you bring your bow to me, either for a simple rehair or extensive restoration, you will always receive my best advice and expert care. I have brought some previously "unsalvageable" bows back to reliable playing condition through innovative repair techniques.
Custom Bows
I have had the privilege of working with many fine musicians creating bows ideally suited to their playing style and complimenting the tonal qualities of their instruments. I look forward to doing the same for you.