Formal Training
In 1989 Lewis Main Jr. suggested that I study with Ed Campbell at the Chimneys Violin Making School in Boiling Springs Pennsylvania.
I studied with Ed in January 1990. Ed has won many awards for his violins and runs one of the best violin making schools in the country.
He is very active in the Violin Society of America and is much sought after as a clinician.
I am very proud of my teachers and the training they have given me.
I am deeply indebted to them for their help and guidance.
I can only hope that my work will reflect their greatness.
My Violin Makers Tree (French School)
Jean B. Vuillaume
1798 - 1875
Paul Bailly
1844 - 1907Renee Aerts
1844 - 1942
Lewis L. Main
1909 - 1993
Lewis L. Main Jr.
1930
Lewis Main Jr. learned violin making from his father. His work desk was directly across from his father’s at the Main’s Violin Shop in Long Beach California. Their customers included professional musicians from various symphonies, soloists, recording studios and serious students in Southern California.
Lew made Stradivarius and Guarneri model violins. His favorite model to make was the 1741 Guarneri Del Gesu model. His violas were modeled after Stradivarius and Amati. Lew also made one cello. Lew varnished his instruments with the Strad 1704 formula that was discovered by his father. He did many experiments with the varnish to make it more durable and lustrous. Lew’s favorite color varnish was rich red-brown. Lew’s years of playing the violin professionally, gave him a keen understanding of what tone quality and playability should be for a high quality instrument. Lew’s knowledge, skill and expertise are well known in the music industry.
Gregory J. Eckes
1950