Irresistible

A new friend of mine recently offered me two wonderful instruments for pennies on the dollar. I couldn't refuse and have now acquired two additional violins.

The first was made by John Larrimore and is the fraternal twin of my own Larrimore instrument ('Lorelei'). Their varnish is practically identical, but this one (named 'Bronwyn') has a very clear and ringing tone, since it had an additional year for the finish to harden. During that extra time, it was on loan to a touring bluegrass fiddler and all of that extra play caused the instrument to open even more.

The second is a German instrument by 'Hopf', made in 1802. It is weathered and has a few cracks, but that is to be expected, given the age. It has a beautiful, loud, clear tone and I love it!

Liz & John

About a month ago, Lois and I attended a wonderful performance at Ashland Coffee and Tea by the phenomenal duo of Liz Carroll and John Doyle. We had a table right in front for Lois' first ever traditional Irish concert. After such an auspicious beginning, she has high expectations now!

Swannanoa #3

I am very excited that Seamus Connolly will teach the intermediate Irish Fiddle class at Swannanoa in July. I also plan to take Jane MacMorran's Fiddle Technique class. Lois will join me towards the end of the week and we plan to travel from Asheville to Atlanta for her family reunion. Keadron also plans to be there with her daughter Ashley and her Father, who apparently is quite an accomplished violinist and should really enjoy the camp a lot. It's just so much fun to immerse oneself in music for an entire week!