Garrett Becker Violin Maker

More detail shots of my latest 1720 Red Mendelssohn model

My pristine bench copy of the 1720 Red Mendelssohn Stradivarius. Know as the inspiration of “The Red Violin” film. Deeply appreciative of for the opportunity to duplicate the original as closely as possible and I hope that it can live up to the legacy of such a remarkable instrument.

Some metal work this morning, making new f-hole templates for my latest Stradivari model.

Back corner and button shots of my latest antiqued Stradivari model

Scroll shots of my latest antiqued Stradivari model

New antiqued Stradivari model off the bench and already out to the client. Very pleased with how this one looks and more detail shots soon!

Clean even string slots are very satisfying

Some more corner detail shots of my pristine 1703 Aurora model

Topographic map of the violin back. After using templates, I will use this pencil tool to make sure all the arching curves are even, equal, and free of any unwanted lumps

Using templates to get the arching just right. I’m fortunate to get to take the arching shapes directly from the classic violins I’m copying. I have to work carefully to correct and readjust any deformations that have occurred over time, but still keep the arching shape true to what the shape would have really been when it was first made.

The scroll from my 1703 Aurora model

My recently completed Aurora 1703 Stradivarius model.

Making new labels for future violins. Not only does this old method of printing apply the ink, the plate also embosses the letters and design on to hand laid paper creating a label close to what the Cremonese masters would have done.

The purfling making process

Using a finger plane to rough out the arching on this top plate

An army of clothespins used to glue in the rib linings

Gluing up the center bout ribs on my newest Stradivari PG forms

New walnut Stradivari PG patterns for my next violins. These were meticulously taken directly from the rib structure of a wonderful golden period Stradivarius currently at the shop for restoration.

has a new article “The Violin Doctor” about my Father. Great insight into his career and our shop, I make a brief cameo as well!

A view of the scroll from my most recent antiqued 1715 Marsick model

My favorite corners from my most recent lightly antiqued 1715 Marsick model

Finishing the edges on my most recent violins

Working on the purfling of my upcoming fiddles. Tedious process, but a violin wouldn’t look the same without it

Forming the arch shape and the channel is a big step in making a violin, when it really starts to resemble an instrument

Gluing in the ribs using the traditional string and counter form method to clamp them. One of my favorite parts of making the rib structure

Finishing up the last details before starting the varnish process. My latest model, direct copy of the 1720 Mendelssohn Stradivarius.

Recently Maestro James Ehnes borrowed my latest violin modeled directly from his remarkable 1715 “Marsick” Stradivari while my father John K. Becker was performing its necessary annual maintenance.

Maestro Ehnes said, “I was thrilled to have such a great instrument to work with while my Strad was being cared for.”

Always an honor, Thank you James Ehnes!