Projects

I ‘m hugely fortunate to have my work  prized by some of the UK’s top orchestral and chamber musicians. 

Commission for a 1695 Ruggieri model cello for london philharmonic orchestra extra player and Hamilton: an american musical deputy, iain ward

  • One-piece back
  • Tailored to suit the player
  • Set-up for projection

guadagnini model commission for pei-jee ng, co-principal of the london philharmonic orchestra

The cello was based the 1757 “Teschenmacher” Gudagnini, made in Milan. With its wide body and generously spaced sound holes, it has a deep and growling lower register. The Commission brief was to base the cello on the Guadagnini whilst allowing for a freedom of personal input and interpretation from myself. 

Cello based on the 1727 Matteo Goffriller played by Daniel Muller-Schott. 

This cello was  a recent commission from a member of  the LPO section.  It was a project that required much research and investigation. The Varnish was an especially in depth area of study. Im very humbled by the feedback and response from the customer and other professionals who have been putting this instrument through its paces.  (original cello pictured top right)

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Cosmetic work on an 1860 honore derazey

  • Matching the varnish
  • repairing  the damaged areas
  • Full new set-up
  • Repairing a developing bass bar crack

Repair work on 1928 Giuseppe Pedrazzini violin 

Rowan’s stunning example of a Pedrazzini violin was in need of some tender love and care after he took the corner off when he caught it with his bow. It’s a surprisingly common occurence and one which I was more than happy to put right. 

    Repair work on 1928 Giuseppe Pedrazzini violin 

    • Rebuilding the corner
    • Replicating the grain
    • Matching varnishes 

    Rowan’s stunning example of a Pedrazzini violin was in need of some tender love and care after he took the corner off when he caught it with his bow. It’s a surprisingly common occurence and one which I was more than happy to put right.

      During the job, I came across the original colour of the violin on the one spot. The original varnish was a deeper red ochre but as the sun-bleached the varnish over time it settled into its present colour. I had to mix a varnish which when it dried would tie in nicely but it’s amazing to see the power of the sun. 

      ”

      I had a lovely violin on loan while mine was being repaired. John Francis made it really easy to collect and return the violin, despite being in a different city at the time. It played beautifully! Always very informative and accommodating.

      Highly recommended.

      Lauren Clay

      What an absolute cracker. This is quite simply exactly what I was looking for. 

      Iain Ward

      Thank you so much! I’m so happy with the match of the colour. It’s as though it was never there.

      Rowan Bell

      When I had the unfortunate incident of opening my violin case to see the neck had come away from the main body of my violin I asked John if he would have a look. After a couple of weeks my violin was returned to me and was sounding as good as ever. Thank you for the painstaking repair you produced to bring my old fiddle back to life.

      Paul Wedge

      John did a quick soundpost adjustment on my viola between rehearsals and he opened up the sound beautifully… He’s professional and it was a joy to experience someone who’s no.1 priority was to make sure I was happy with how my instrument sounded and felt. His musicianship and experience as a violinist is a huge bonus, I can’t recommend his services highly enough.

      Adam Maha

      Get in touch

      I’m old fashioned. It’s good to talk. Give me a call.

      +447703048042

      Office Location

      54 Fosse Road, Farndon, Nottinghamshire NG24 4ST

      Open Hours

      Mon – Sat: 9am – 8pm

      Email

      [email protected]

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