
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 and restorers 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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The International Pernambuco Conservation Initiative was founded 25 years ago this year! To mark the occasion, a benefit concert will take place in May with Aleksey Igudesman and Ilumina Music 🎻 Find out more here:
François Chanot, a French engineer, is renowned for his innovative violin designs in the early 19th century. In 1817, he introduced a violin with a guitar-shaped body, deviating from the traditional curved form. This design aimed to enhance sound projection and tonal quality by altering the instrument’s shape.  Chanot’s experimental approach significantly influenced contemporary luthiers and musicians. Notably, guitarist Francesco Molino drew inspiration from Chanot’s designs. Around 1823, Molino developed a guitar featuring an arched soundboard, a departure from the conventional flat design. This innovation was directly influenced by Chanot’s guitar-shaped violins and represented a pivotal moment in the evolution of guitar construction during that era.  While Chanot’s primary focus was on violin construction, his pioneering work indirectly spurred advancements in guitar design, leading to instruments with improved acoustics and structural features in the 1820s. #violin #viola #cello #france #guitar
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