German born Steffen Nowak studied at  the "Welsh School of Violin Making" from where he  graduated  with  merit.
A professional Violin, Viola and Cello maker in Bristol since 1986 he mainly makes instruments based on models by the classical makers of Cremona. They are available in both  modern, classical and baroque set ups.

Violin maker out of passion, being open and aware to demanding clients’ needs and expectations, Steffen – being a keen violinist himself – welcomes enquiries and would be pleased to discuss the process of commissioning though it is also possible to find some instruments in stock.
A great emphasis is placed on sound, projection and set up as well as the long term development, but his instruments are also known to respond very easily from ‘new’.

The instruments are carefully made to the highest standards of craftsmanship, and a fine oil varnish of his own composition enhances the natural beauty of the traditional materials. Instruments can also be made as antique reproductions.
Of great benefit  is a large stock of seasoned fine tone woods (Bosnian  maple,  English  sycamore,  European spruce).

                                 - 23 years of professional making
                                 - Highest standards
                                 - Beautiful varnish and wood
                                 - Projective and brilliant sound
                                 - Customers in many countries

The last years have seen a range of exciting new models which are receiving a positive resonance  with both professionals and connoisseurs in the UK and abroad. Exhibitions in Vienna, Portland Oregon, London and Manchester have contributed to an even wider clientele.  So far in 2009 violins after Guarneri del Gesu and Stradivari as well as some more midsize violas are being made and planned.

Chamber  musicians  and  soloists  from various European countries have  selected  instruments  from his  workshop. Amongst  them are Prof. Rainer  Kussmaul (ex. Berlin Phil. Orchestra - now leader Berliner Barock-Solisten), Lutz  Gäbler and several  players  of  the  Handel  Festival Orchestra  of  Halle, Emma Alter (London), Christina Rox (Cologne), Robert Hyman (Bath Pump Room Trio),  Charles  Medlam  (London Baroque),  Sarah Butcher ( London), Ensemble  Zimmermann  (Denmark). His  instruments  are also  found in  music colleges  and  Trusts  (Royal Danish   Academy of  Music  Copenhagen, London  Trinity College of Music, Benslow Music Trust).

contact:  Steffen Nowak, 75 Sylvia Avenue, Bristol BS3 5BU  ph. 0117 9777141   e-mail:  s@nowakviolins.co.uk

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