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.
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I begin by removing most of the wood with a gouge.
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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.
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Cutting the f holes with a jewellers' saw.
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F holes are trimmed with a knife to the desired shape and style.
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The bass bar is fitted and glued in position with animal glue.
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The finished shape and size of the bass bar is also dictated by the resonant frequencies of the belly.
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All of my instruments are stamped and signed inside.
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The ribs are first glued onto the back.
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The 'cello box is closed and is ready to have the neck fitted.
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The next stage in the making process is carving and fitting the neck.