Updated Information about my most Recent Instruments and the one I'm currently making.

Please visit my Gallery of Instrument Photos where you'll find thumbnail graphical links to the different models of instruments I make.

Read and interview with David Van Zandt written by Steve Csik for the Violin Society of America Newsletter in December of 1999

    I began making violins in 1979 at the Violin Making School of America. After graduating from there in 1983, I moved to New York City to work with William L. Monical, where I stayed for four years.  While in New York I took advantage of many opportunities to examine, both inside and out, a spectrum of very fine modern and historical instruments. Since 1987 I have lived and worked in Seattle, Washington.  I continue to study instruments often and to participate in ongoing professional violin making forums.  Taking opportunities to examine fine instruments continues to be invaluable toward developing insight into classical construction techniques and tonal characteristics. 

    I build violins, violas and cellos for musicians specializing in modern performance practices. I also build instruments in an historically informed manner for musicians specializing in period performance.

    Throughout my career I have obtained excellent tone wood to build my instruments with, and I have a good supply of striking aged maple and spruce to draw upon. I have also continued to research information about the oil varnishes I make, and to refine my application techniques.

    Inquiries about my instruments are welcomed. I can be contacted via e-mail or reached in my Seattle workshop at (206) 478-9603. If I am unavailable and you reach my answering machine, please leave your name and the best time to reach you.  I will return your message promptly. 

Member:
American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers
and
The Violin Society of America

I'm often contacted  to give information for the value or provenance of  instruments and bows.   I do not offer this service, but I've created a web page for those seeking more information about instruments and bows in their possession.

To the Gallery of Instrument Photos

To information and updates of my current building schedule

Violin and Bow Makers Resources

[Miscellaneous Links]     [Makers Homepages]     [Violin & Bow Making Schools]     [Puget Sound Area Shops]
[Period Bow Makers]     [Publications]     [Suppliers]     [String Makers]     [Societies & Organizations]

I 'm always interested in obtaining fine instrument wood and fittings.
If you have quality spruce, maple or fittings for sale please contact me.
David T. Van Zandt
Seattle, Washington
(206) 478-9603

Copyright © David T. Van Zandt, 1997 - 2008. All rights reserved