‘Sounding Board’ - National Trust For Scotland

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.