This is the back on Duston's violin.  It's his first instrument and he's putting it together whenever his schedule allows.  This particular piece of wood was something I never thought I would use since the marketability of something so unusual is questionable.  I simply did not want to take the risk. There was a time when I would never purchase a violin with a knot in it.   However, for Duston it is perfect!  He's never going to sell it and it's very unique and stunning.  We're about 2 months away from hearing its voice and we're getting impatient.

The competition is underway today in Quebec and it's particularly exciting for me as James Ross will be competing on his Robert Haag violin.  I'm sure everyone wishes him all the best!  I look forward to posting a video at some point.

I read somewhere in the last year that Del Gesu was born on this day, albeit a few hundred years ago.  I rarely remember birthdays, but I remember this one because it's the same date as my birthday, and I've never forgotten mine.  The festivities today include helping a friend attach the neck to the body of the violin he's working on.  As well, I plan to start another violin today.  The model I will use for inspiration is, of course, a Del Gesu!