Peter White – #265 Violin

Violin #265 was made in 2022, and it is one my favorites because of the character of the wood and the tone. It is based upon the work of Guarneri del Gesu, an 18th century master violin maker. Today Guarneri del Gesu violins can sell for as much as 18 million dollars. This particular violin has a top which has been finished “in the white” with a metal scraper, allowing the top to exhibit a textured look, like corduroy. This is a contemporary method of preparing the violin for varnish.

The wood on this violin is unique. The back is one piece, meaning there is no center joint. The wood was purchased in Slovakia from a famous wood cutter. The top, like Stradivari’s Messiah violin, has what makers call a pitch pocket, filled with wood from the original spruce top. The oil varnish is a deep red color. The tone of this violin is suitable for any symphony musician or advanced student. However, soloists may also find this instrument capable of great sound projection.

Peter White has won many gold medals in American contests for his violins, violas, and cellos. He has also won a gold medal for his detailed copy of Andrea Amati’s 1560 violin and viola. This award was given to him at the first International Competition for Antiqued Instruments in 2010, Cremona, Italy. Most of White’s education in violin making was done under Jan Pawlikowski in Krakow Poland, and through short internships in other European violin shops.