Luthier Work

All repairs, bow re-hairing, and setups are done in the shop by the owner Michael

Michael's education began with a rigorous apprenticeship under the renowned masters including luthier Stefano Trabucchi, Andrea Varazzani, Nicolo Formaggia, and Luca Slaviero in the historical town Cremona in Italy. At the last day of teaching from master luthier Luca Slaviero, he told Michael that he was the fastest and most detailed student out of his many students he has taught.

During this time, Michael honed his craft by studying the complex relationship between an instrument's internal structure and its sound. He developed a deep understanding of how the precise placement of the sound post and bass bar, the quality of the bridge, and even the style of the varnish all contribute to the final tone and character of each violin.

Each instrument at this shop is a testament to a philosophy that blends the timeless traditions of the Cremonese masters with a modern understanding of physics and playability. The result is a violin that is visually stunning, ergonomically comfortable, and acoustically exceptional.

Michael's work is a testament to his understanding that a violin is a delicate instrument, particularly in a high-humidity environment. He expertly addresses the challenges posed by Hawaii's climate, ensuring each instrument's character is preserved and its sound is protected for years to come.

At the heart of Michael's work is a profound respect for the musician. Understanding that the instrument is an extension of the player's voice, Michael works closely with each client to understand their unique needs, playing style, and tonal preferences. This collaborative process ensures that every instrument is a perfect match, a partner ready to help the musician achieve their highest artistic goals.