Chris Cartlidge
Australian String Quartet
"I’ve been lucky to know Doug as both a friend and colleague for over 15 years. He’s not only one of the most dedicated and thoughtful musicians I know, but also one of the most exciting luthiers around. I play on a brilliant viola he made for me, an homage to the 1783 Guadagnini that’s on loan to me, and I couldn’t be happier."
Photo: Jacqui Way
Julia Fredersdorff
Van Diemen's Band
"I commissioned Doug to create an exact reproduction of a 1613 piccolo violin by the Brothers Amati, and the result exceeded all expectations. His craftsmanship is exceptional – every detail demonstrates the care and precision of a true master luthier. What impressed me most was how thoughtful and considered his approach was throughout the entire process.
Doug works remarkably efficiently without ever compromising on quality. As a musician himself, he truly understands what makes an instrument responsive and playable. The setup is impeccable, and the instrument responds beautifully under the bow. He listened carefully to all my requests and actively sought feedback at every stage, making the experience genuinely collaborative.
The finished piccolo violin isn't just a functional instrument – it's a genuine piece of art. I couldn't be happier with Doug's work and would highly recommend him to any musician seeking an instrument of the highest quality."
Martin Penicka
Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
"Douglas’ beautifully constructed copy of my 1775 Benjamin Banks is one of my treasured possessions and is used daily. It produces an even, responsive sound, is easy to play and shares many of the sonic attributes of the Banks. In blind tests, some people prefer the sound of Doug’s instrument! I would happily order another."
Mattea Osenk (right)
Australian National Academy of Music
"This viola’s incredible rich and dark sound allows to me express music and emotions in a way I didn’t know I was capable of until now!"
Angelina Kim (left)
Australian National Academy of Music
"Getting to play this viola has been an exciting chapter in my career. There is an inviting and sonorous quality to the sound, which I've loved exploring."
