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Instrument Construction - inside the plates

The making of a violoncello, based on the Stradivari pattern "Forma B Piccola".

Having completed the arching of the front and back plates, I now proceed to hollow the inside the instrument, cut the f holes and fit the bass bar.

 

I begin by removing most of the wood with a gouge.

 

 

As I get closer to the required thickness I work with a small plane, always measuring the thickness of the timber, flexing the plate and working with the plate frequencies.

Cutting the f holes with a jewellers' saw.

F holes are trimmed with a knife to the desired shape and style.

 

The bass bar is fitted and glued in position with animal glue.

The finished shape and size of the bass bar is also dictated by the resonant frequencies of the belly.

 

All of my instruments are stamped and signed inside.

 

 

The ribs are first glued onto the back.

The 'cello box is closed and is ready to have the neck fitted.

 

 

The next stage in the making process is carving and fitting the neck.