The Art of Violin Making

A Talk for the PAS by Luthier Chris Beaumont, The Violin Workshop, Cambridge

Thursday 19 March 2026

6.30pm Refreshments

7.00pm to 8.00pm Talk

The Lowry Room, Tonbridge School

The Parents' Arts Society invites you to learn about the traditional art of violin making from Luthier Chris Beaumont of The Violin Workshop, Cambridge. Chris will explain the complexities of violin making - an art which has changed little in over 500 years, taking us through all the processes of construction of a new instrument from raw materials, to the finished piece. He will talk about the selection of wood, how to achieve the precise geometry to create an instrument and explain the Luthier's role in achieving the perfect acoustics required to satisfy the most skilled and knowledgeable violinists.

This promises to be an absorbing journey into the specialised world of violin making and craftsmanship, and will be of interest to players of stringed instruments, keen violinists and non-musicians alike!

Having followed in the footsteps of his mother (Luthier Juliet Barker), Chris is also skilled in making other bowed instruments such as violas, cellos and double basses. His range of expertise also includes making and repairing guitars. He completed his apprenticeship in 1993 and is now the full time owner and manager of The Workshop.

Outside of his teaching commitments, Chris is a keen musician, playing cello, guitar, keyboards and bass.  Please join us to learn more about this fascinating traditional skill. Drinks and light refreshments will be served prior to the talk.

Places: 40

Cost £20.00

Please note this event is fully accessible.