Meet Tom


Meet Tom of Tom's Violins

Welcome to the world of exquisite craftsmanship and the artistry of violins! At our custom violin shop, we take immense pride in offering unparalleled craftsmanship from a lifelong passion for woodworking. With over five decades of experience in woodworking, Tom started learning and honing his skills at the age of 8 after receiving a set of "adult" woodworking tools for Christmas from his grandmother. She saw his potential while hanging out and working with his uncle, learning the craft. That innate talent and dedication have only grown stronger over the years.

His journey into the world of violin-making began later in life. He recalls working in a furniture shop after graduating high school, and someone said, "You don't have to be so precise; we're not making violins here!" Tom never forgot that phrase, and it became a personal goal. They finally embarked on a relentless pursuit of perfection in this specialized art form. With each passing year, he has meticulously crafted and fine-tuned his techniques, resulting in a collection of exquisite violins that are nothing short of masterpieces.

Hear it from Tom:

Introducing an extraordinary journey of craftsmanship and dedication to violin making. With a passion for woodworking that sparked at 8, I embarked on a remarkable career, leading me to master various woodworking categories. Over the years, I established myself as a skilled trim carpenter, remodeled historical homes to their original grandeur, and honed my expertise as a cabinet maker and furniture artisan.

As a visionary leader, I owned or managed several successful companies, leaving my indelible mark on carpentry and fine woodworking.

Amidst my exceptional career as a master in woodworking and my journey into the world of violin making, I also proudly served my country for 23 years in the Army Reserve and National Guard as a skilled helicopter repair technician. I exemplified dedication, discipline, and leadership throughout my military tenure, embodying the same values that have shaped my craftsmanship.

As a soldier and technician, I honed my technical expertise and problem-solving abilities, ensuring the seamless operation of critical machinery. The attention to detail and precision required in helicopter repair seamlessly translated into my passion for creating musical masterpieces. My time in the military instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility and a commitment to excellence, qualities that have become the bedrock of my artistry in violin making.

Amidst these triumphs, I discovered my true calling in the world of violins. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, I ventured into the realm of violin making, a path I largely self-taught by immersing myself in books and embracing a relentless pursuit of excellence. As my skills flourished, I was welcomed into the esteemed Elite Luthier Academy, an exclusive community of world-class makers dedicated to honing their craft and elevating violin-making to new heights.

The Academy's rigorous vetting process recognized my exceptional talent and commitment, solidifying my place among accomplished artisans. Within this esteemed group, I found a network of mentors and mentees, each contributing to the collective knowledge of historical research, sound design, and the meticulous art of instrument creation. My journey led me to unlock the secrets of the violoncello da spalla, a rare gem brought back to life under my skilled hands.

With unwavering commitment and the knowledge bestowed by the Elite Luthier Academy, I am here to craft exceptional violins, violas, cellos, and the enchanting violoncello da spalla for discerning musicians who seek nothing short of perfection in their musical journeys. Welcome to my world of artistry, where each instrument carries a piece of my heart and the promise of timeless harmony.

My years of experience and dedication have proven my prowess beyond measure. My passion, craftsmanship, and continuous pursuit of excellence stand as a testament to the art of violin making as I strive to create high-end instruments that resonate with the hearts of musicians worldwide. With each masterpiece I bring to life, I am honored to leave a legacy of artistry that transcends time and captivates the souls of those who embrace the enchanting melodies born from my hands.

Nestled in the heart of the United States, our centrally located custom violin shop stands as a testament to the rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship while embracing innovation to cater to the needs of modern musicians. We believe that the true soul of a violin lies in the hands that created it, and our skills are infused in every instrument with a piece of our heart and soul.

What sets us apart is not just our decades of experience but our deep passion and love for woodworking and the art of violin making. Each violin that leaves our workshop carries the legacy of craftsmanship that has been honed throughout a lifetime.

We are not merely a violin shop; we are a haven for musicians seeking instruments that resonate with sound's beauty and design's elegance. Our commitment to excellence is unwavering, and we ensure that every violin that bears our name is a testament to the harmonious marriage of art and music.

Explore our website to discover the rich history, unparalleled craftsmanship, and the magical world of violins that await you. Whether you are a seasoned musician or an aspiring virtuoso, we are here to provide you with an instrument that will become an extension of your musical soul. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

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