Hand Crafted Violins by Chris David Lilley

My aim with every instrument I make is to create individuality, new ideas and the build up of experience give rise to a process of constant fine tuning in the development of my violins, and each is truly unique. In my experience this philosophy is shared by many violin players in their music, all violinists are unique in their musical desires, and approach to the creation of sound, and in my experience 2 violinists can produce very different sounds from one violin. My personal desire is to see my instruments inspire the musicians who play them, and to build a lasting relationship with those players, making sure the instrument is in good hands and performing in the way those hands want it to.

My violins are based on the 1743 Guarneri del Gesu model known as "Il Cannone", this instrument was prized by the great violin virtuoso Paganini for its power and tone. The instruments shown (right) were finished in 2010 and 2006.

I have been making Violins for 12 years, each instrument is fully hand crafted using traditional methods and varnishes. I Guarantee my instruments for life against manufacturing defects, and am always happy to offer impartial advice on any instrument brought before me. As a musician myself I take pride in only playing my own instruments.

Pricing for commissioned Violins starts at £3500 for instruments finished in spirit varnish or £4500 for oil varnish. The length of time between commissioning and collection varies with my work load, at present (July 2011) waiting time for a spirit varnished instrument is 3 to 4 months or 1 year for oil.

I am more than happy to discuss various cosmetic details, and factors affecting playability, e.g. the exact shape of the neck etc, to tailor the instrument to your exact needs.

A full range of student violins, violas, and cellos is available in sizes from 4/4 to 1/32 depending on the model chosen, having discussed your needs, these are ordered in and individually set up, contact me for more information.