About

Michael is a professional and friendly traditional maker, repairer and restorer of instruments and bows of the violin family. 

A specialist in instrument set up and tonal adjustment, Michael is a graduate of the world renown Newark School, and formally trained in the methods of Antonio Stradivari, he gained NSVM certification and holds the Beare’s Diploma for violin making.

Appearances on BBC Television & BBC Radio, and lecturing in Europe, have resulted in some of the world’s foremost players seeking out Michael’s skills and assistance … that said, he is equally committed to looking after his many student players and beginners. 

Michael has ultimate respect for his customer’s instruments and bows and appreciates that they have entrusted him personally to do the work and therefore, unlike some, never sub-contracts work to anyone  . . .   

 “My reputation is important to me because this is not just my job … it’s my passion ! … and so the work is always done right and in the proper manner, never rushed or compromised. 

That said, sometimes a player has an imminent concert, audition or examination deadline and I do my utmost to help them meet their commitments.”

Additionally, “I give advice openly, honestly and freely and I am totally committed to providing my customers with the highest quality service and care. I believe the relationship between the player and the luthier is very much a partnership, based on trust, sharing the same common goal … to make you sound superb and be as good as you can be !

Players of all abilities, ages and backgrounds are welcomed in my workshops … because I care.” 

Michael has workshops in two locations: the main workshop is conveniently situated in the garden at the Bluecoat Art Centre in the culturally vibrant city of Liverpool and another at his home, set in 11 acres of breathtaking mature woodland in the designated AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) near Mold, North Wales.

From here services are provided to professional, nonprofessional, student and novice players across Wales, Liverpool, Manchester, Chester, Wirral, Merseyside, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, West Midlands, London, throughout the UK and beyond.