Lately I've been starting violins by carving the scroll. Most people carve it last. I like the fresh, relaxed attitude that I bring to violin construction early in the process. I find I have to restrain myself when a violin is almost complete, so starting with the scroll allows me to give it my best effort. Carving the scroll is one of the most enjoyable parts of the whole process, so it's almost like eating dessert before the main course.
In other news, group fiddling courses for adults start early next month at Mount Royal Conservatory. Lynae Dufresne is the instructor and she is excellent. I recommend them.
The Legacy Childrens Foundation is fundraising to support their efforts to bring music instruction to disadvantaged youth in Alberta. Check them out online.