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TASMANIAN MAKERS

A selection of recommended luthiers working in Tasmania

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DOUGLAS COGHILL

Doug Coghill has been building violas and violins since 2003. He also works as professional viola player with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Because of his occupation and the scarcity of good instruments in Australia, Doug is particularly interested in creating great violas.

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DENNIS WITT 

Dennis started instrument making in 2013, after visiting a luthier's workshop in Cremona, Italy, with his cellist daughter and her circa 1850 cello. Dennis smoothly transitioned his woodworking skills, honed making wooden racing rowing boats and other watercraft, to the art of instrument making.  He started with a pair of cellos, and then expanded his repertoire to include violins and violas. Dennis has used both traditional European and Australian woods to make instruments that are beautifully finished, comfortable to play, and rich in sound.

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PHILIP SMITH

Australian instrument and bow maker Philip Smith has handcrafted over 55 instruments - violin, viola, cello, double bass as well as baroque instruments (viola da gamba and viola d'amore). Philip applies the traditional methods to create beautiful modern instruments, known for a robust sound and excellent projection. Philip crafts both baroque and modern model bows for violin. viola, cello and double bass.

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IVAN JAMES

Ivan is a Hobart based maker who has been making violins since 2014. He takes his main inspiration from the Guarneri models. As a professional cellist himself with the TSO, Ivan brings a well trained ear and a passion for good instrument making. His violins have been well celebrated. 

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BILL YARWOOD

The Central Highlands of Tasmania is considered an ideal setting for viola maker Bill Yarwood.  Bill studied guitar making in the USA in 1985. In recent years Bill has moved to viola making under the direction of violist Simon Collins from Melbourne.

TASMANIAN MAKERS: Testimonials
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