Joseph Liteh Liu 劉立德
Violin and Bow Maker 
Joseph Liu Violin Bow Studio
Los Angeles, CA
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Instruments
Each instrument is carefully made entirely by me. I hand select each piece of wood for aesthetic and tonal reasons. Using the knowledge old Italian masters passed on, each instrument has the arching, graduation, and geometric pattern to produce a beautiful yet unique sound.
I learned making from teachers at the Chicago School of Violin Making primarily under Rebecca Elliott and Master Violin Maker Tschu Ho Lee and working with Margaret Shipman, co-author of Violin Restoration, at the Hans Weisshaar Violin Shop until her retirement in 2008.
Violin, Viola, and Cello
Varnish and Setup
Each instrument is covered with up to eight coats of beautiful varnish made of the highest quality of natural ingredients. I like leaving the texture natural, without excessive sanding and polishing. Occasionally I shade in areas to give it a slightly worn look.
Setup is carefully done at the end of the making process using the highest quality soundpost, bridge, and strings. Cellists can choose from either a French or Belgium style bridge.
Commissioning an instrument
To commission an instrument, a 20% refundable deposit is required. For instruments that required more preparation (examples are: a viola larger than 16 3/4 inch back length, an exact copy, or a unusual pattern), add 20% to the base price listed below.
After a commissioned instrument is finished, you will have two weeks to try. If you do not like it, return it for your deposit back. If you like the instrument, full payment is due.
Pricing and Availability
Prices for new instruments:
Violins: $7,000
Violas: $8,000
Cellos: $14,000
Double Basses: Sorry, I do not make them.
Currently Available:
A Ysaye Del Gesu model violin completed in 2010 - Sold 3/7/10.
A Goffriller model cello completed in 2009 is available through the Metzler Violin Shop in Glendale, California.
Joseph Liu Violin Bow Studio
Los Angeles, CA
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