At an early age I learned that my Bavarian great-great grandfather made his living as a cabinet maker.  This knowledge instilled in me a sense of old world traditions and a respect for handcrafting beautiful and functional objects from wood.  I pursued woodworking as an all-consuming avocation and approached every project, from a mission style curio cabinet to a hand-built, 17th style foot-powered lathe, with artistry and attention to detail.
 

After pursuing another career path for several years, I experienced my moment of truth.  A gift lovingly designed and handcrafted from wood made an emotional connection with the recipient.  As a result, a vision of a new path started to emerge.

To learn the craft of violin and viola making I studied full-time for three years at the Chicago School of Violin Making.  During that period, I supplemented my education by attending Violin Society of America conferences and inspecting many rare and fine instruments at Bein and Fushi and Kenneth Warren and Son in Chicago.  After graduating I was able to make my dreams a reality, that is, to make instruments utilizing traditional methods and practices worthy of the attention and appreciation of others.
 

Today, I feel fortunate to be a full-time violin maker.  I enjoy handcrafting violins and violas inspired by traditional Italian models as well as five-string violins and violas of my own design.
 

I owe thanks to many people who have assisted me throughout the years including Tschu Ho Lee, Fred  Thompson, Becky Elliott, Daria Horodyskyj, Joe Bein, Jim Warren, John Bowen, Joe Robson, Marilyn Wallin, Todd
Goldenberg, Amos Hargrave, Ken Stein, and Jack and Alice Naylor.