Atelier Gentbrugge · Handcrafted
Violins · Violas · Cellos — each one a singular creation, built to the musician's vision in the living tradition of Cremona.
The Craft
Every instrument I make is handcrafted using the finest materials. The purfling, varnish and pigments I use are also homemade, based on carefully researched formulas. I spend considerable time designing the model of each instrument using the traditional methods of the 17th and 18th century Cremonese school, tuning and analysing every part according to the latest research and standards.
I specialise in custom-made violins, violas and cellos. The process begins with an in-depth conversation: we discuss the model, the desired tonal characteristics, the neck profile, string length, varnish colour, and any personal preferences that will make this instrument uniquely yours.
The wood — aged spruce for the top, maple for the back, ribs and scroll — is selected with the same care as a surgeon chooses instruments. Each piece is assessed for its acoustic properties before a single shaving is taken. The result is an instrument that breathes with you.
Instruments
Violin
Il violino
The soprano voice of the string family. Pieter's violins are modelled on the great Cremonese masters — Stradivari, Guarneri, Amati — adapted to the individual musician's arm length, bow arm and tonal vision. Ranging from a brilliant projecting sound to a darker, more intimate character.
Viola
La viola
The most personal of the string instruments, the viola requires deep customisation. Pieter works closely with each violist to find the ideal body length, upper bout width and string length — balancing ergonomic comfort with the full, reedy tone that defines the instrument.
Cello
Il violoncello
Powerful yet intimate, the cello demands the finest tonewoods and the most careful acoustic calibration. Each cello is built using plate tuning techniques derived from both classical tradition and contemporary acoustic research, resulting in instruments of exceptional resonance and projection.
What sets these instruments apart
Homemade purfling
Hand-cut and inlaid, never machine-made factory strips
Homemade varnish & pigments
Oil varnish based on historically researched Cremonese formulas
Cremonese models
17th–18th century masters: Stradivari, Guarneri, Amati, Montagnana
Acoustic analysis
Every plate tuned and analysed per the latest scientific research
Full customisation
Model, scroll, neck profile and varnish colour to the musician's wishes
Optimised set-up
Bridge, soundpost and string selection calibrated for each instrument
Consultation
In-depth discussion of model, dimensions, tonal goal and aesthetic preferences
Wood selection
Carefully chosen aged tonewoods assessed for acoustic and visual quality
Carving & graduation
Plates carved and graduated by hand; each tap-tone analysed
Assembly & varnishing
Assembled with hide glue; varnished in multiple layers of homemade oil varnish
Set-up & adjustment
Bridge cut, soundpost set, strings fitted and final adjustments made
Handover
Final meeting with the musician for personal adjustment and playing-in advice
Currently Available
Violin · P-mould
After Antonio Stradivari, 1715
This violin is modelled after one of Stradivari's finest instruments from his golden period — the celebrated "Titian" of 1715. Built on the P-mould, it offers a clear, brilliant tone with exceptional projection. Homemade golden-amber varnish with historical pigments.
The process begins with a single conversation. Reach out to discuss your vision — model, specifications, tonal preferences — and Pieter will guide you through every step.
Start the conversation