John Montgomery Violins specializes in handcrafted acoustic and electric violins built for advancing students and professional performers. The atelier balances traditional techniques with modern setup to deliver instruments that respond quickly and project in diverse venues.
Each instrument from John Montgomery Violins undergoes detailed voicing, precise setup, and conservative finishing. This approach supports clarity, dynamic control, and reliable intonation across registers.
| Model | Top Material | Back & Sides | Finish | Price Range USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Student Series | Spruce | Maple | Satin Varnish | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| Intermediate | Spruce | Flamed Maple | Oil + Varnish Blend | 6,000 – 12,000 |
| Advanced | European Spruce | Flamed or Quilted Maple | Traditional Amber Varnish | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Custom | Selected Spruce | Rare Figured Maple | Commission Finish | 28,000 – 45,000+ |
Acoustic Tone Optimization
Plate Graduation and Tuning
John Montgomery pays close attention to plate thickness gradients to achieve a balanced tonal spectrum. Front and back plates are tuned to target modal frequencies, improving responsiveness and reducing wolf notes.
Bracing Design and Setup
Internal bracing patterns are adjusted to support dynamic control while preserving brightness. The neck angle, bass bar, and soundpost placement are refined during setup to stabilize projection and playability.
Electric Violin Integration
Signal Path and Output
For amplified performance, integrated pickups capture string vibration with high fidelity. Low-noise preamps and volume controls allow stage-ready balance without compromising acoustic character.
Aesthetic and Hardware Coordination
Electric models feature modern fittings, ergonomic contours, and stable tuning systems. Players gain flexibility to explore effects while maintaining the visual warmth of traditional violins.
Custom Commission Process
Wood Selection and Visions
Clients collaborate on tonewood choices, graduation plans, and aesthetic details. Each design is reviewed for structural integrity, expected response, and long-term aging behavior.
Timeline and Quality Checkpoints
From initial sketches to final setup, John Montgomery Violins follows structured milestones. Periodic reviews ensure that build quality, playability, and visual consistency meet exacting standards.
Playing and Care Recommendations
- Maintain stable humidity between 40 and 60 percent to protect joints and finish.
- Use a quality rosin and clean strings regularly to preserve tone and response.
- Schedule periodic professional checkups for soundpost and bridge alignment.
- Store the violin in a secure case with proper support to reduce handling stress.
- Keep pickup and electronics dry and inspect cable connections before performances.
FAQ
Reader questions
How quickly can I expect my custom violin from John Montgomery Violins to be completed?
Standard custom timelines range from five to eight months, depending on chosen materials and shop schedule complexity. Rush options may be available with prior arrangement.
Do the instruments require special maintenance compared to standard production violins?
They benefit from routine humidity control, careful handling, and periodic professional checkups. Proper maintenance helps maintain stable joints, finish integrity, and tonal consistency over time.
Are intermediate models suitable for advancing students preparing for conservatory auditions?
Yes, intermediate models offer responsive dynamics and focused projection that align well with demanding repertoire and recording environments.
Can the setup be adjusted for alternative tunings or scordatura without compromising the construction?
John Montgomery can advise on safe tension ranges and setup tweaks for alternate tunings, ensuring the instrument remains within design limits.