American Federation of
Violin and Bow Makers
Dedicated to the Ethical Practice of Craftsmanship, Conservation, Education, Expertise, and Outreach
The American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers is comprised of over 170 of the finest makers, dealers and restorers in the United States and Canada.
Member Directory
Our members meet high standards of excellence in workmanship and experience. They also are committed to adhere to our mission and code of ethics.
Musicians and Instrument owners are invited to consult our Member Directory for purchases, restoration, or appraisals.
Membership
Members share, network and learn through Federation meetings, events, concerts, and publications. We also curate a large photographic archive.
Makers, restorers and dealers can apply here.
Advocacy and Outreach
We support and initiate projects and policy that promote the betterment of the music community and the world at large. Read more about our involvement with conserving endangered species, documenting the history of the American Violin, and our other projects.
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Born in 1926, William Salchow was a pioneer for American bowmakers. In 1959, he received a Fulbright Scholarship, giving him the opportunity to travel to Mirecourt, France to study bowmaking. While there, he studied under Georges Barjonnet and Charles Alfred Bazin. In 1960, William returned to the US and founded Salchow & Sons. Over the years, William became the leading American bowmaker and his high quality bows were sought after by many musicians. If you have personal experience with William Salchow or his bows, please leave it in the comments. Also, for more information on his work and business check out Salchow and Sons website linked below. Link: https://salchowbows.com/ #art #craftsmanship #woodworking #handmade #salchow #bow
We would like to share some music with you today. Check out this performance of Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35 with violinist Hilary Hahn and The National Youth Orchestra. The concert took place in Dallas, Texas on July 22nd. You can find the entire recording at the link below. Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7C_DA6PF4Yw #music #orchestra #art #artist #musician #violin #violinist #nationalyouthorchestra #hillaryhahn #Tchaikovsky #tchaikovsky
The Philadelphia Orchestra has failed to reach an agreement regarding their working contracts. Players say the proposed salaries would keep them well below other top performing orchestras in the nation. The orchestra's first performance of the new season is set for September 20th. Read the full article at the link below. Link: https://www.inquirer.com/arts/philadelphia-orchestra-contract-strike-musicians-kimmel-center-20230911.html #art #music #musician #artist #orchestra #philadelphiaorchestra #philadelphia
Another Member Monday! Today we highlight AFVBM member Lawrence Wilke. Lawrence's interest in making stems from his love of music. He began playing the cello at age 8 and studied the instrument with Marijane Carr Seigal of the Lyric Opera of Chicago. In 1978 he began to study violin making with his uncle, master violin maker David Caron. Lawrence also studied bow making and repair with Philip Krause and design and restoration with Andrew Dipper. In 1988 he opened his own shop where he makes violins, violas, and cellos. You can read more about Lawrence at his website linked below. Link: https://wilkecellos.com/ #violin #luthier #art #violinmakers #handmade #cellist #cello #craftsmanship #woodworking #viola #MemberMonday #membermonday
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