Violin-maker hopes to turn back the clock
Another string to the bow of Holmes's legacy
Arthur Conan Doyle tree fashions a violin
Sounding Board
Violin Shaping Up
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Listen to Steve Burnett talking on NATIONAL RADIO about The Conan Doyle/Sherlock Holmes Violin Project. Wood from the tree within the garden of Conan Doyle's childhood home was used to fashion a violin in tribute to the 150th anniversary of his birth.
DOWNLOAD MP3 2.80MB - 8min 10sec |
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Sounding Board
'National Trust For Scotland' - Published Date: Spring 2008
A piece of willow from Inveresk Lodge Garden is branching out into the music business. The wood, which was removed from the tree as part of a programme of pruning, has begun the process of transformation into a violin. Edinburgh instrument maker Steve Burnett will first season the timber in his workshop before setting to work on the stringed instrument.
'Bringing a tree to life by beautiful sound is a great satisfaction', says Steve, adding that willow, though difficult to work, produces a beautifully, mellow tone.
Steve, who has made more than 50 instruments over the last 15 years, uses a variety of woods to make violins, violas and cellos, including sycamore, pine and willow. He has sought to rediscover the ingredients and spirit of early Italian instrument-making to achieve a full rounded sound with a carrying power.
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