Violin Maker William Piper: A Master Craftsman in Worcestershire

While some violin makers achieve widespread fame, many other skilled artisans remain known only within a close-knit circle of musicians and collectors. These luthiers dedicate their lives to their craft, producing instruments that resonate with exceptional quality and character. One such master craftsman is William Piper (see Figure 1), a contemporary violin maker whose work has quietly shaped the world of stringed instruments.

The Journey of Violin Maker William Piper

William Piper has been making violins for nearly six decades (see Figure 2). His journey began in 1965 when he undertook an apprenticeship at Sydney Evans’ workshop in Birmingham. Under Evans’ mentorship, Piper learned the delicate balance of precision and artistry required to create violins with superior tonal quality. This period, therefore, laid the foundation for his lifelong passion for violin making.

Following his apprenticeship, Piper established his workshop in Birmingham, refining his techniques and developing his signature style. Later, he moved his practice to the Jinney Ring Craft Centre in the West Midlands, an inspiring setting where visitors could witness the violin-making process firsthand.

An Internationally Respected Violin Maker

Over the years, Piper’s reputation grew beyond the UK. Today, musicians across the globe play his violins, prized for their craftsmanship, sound quality, and attention to detail. With over 700 instruments to his name, his work has become a fixture in the world of violin making, and some of his violins have fetched as much as £3,000 at auction. This recognition speaks not only to the quality of his work but also to the appreciation musicians and collectors have for his instruments.

Capturing Violin Maker William Piper at Work

In 2012, I photographed William Piper in his workshop, capturing the essence of his craft (see Figures 3 & 4). Watching him shape wood into instruments that would eventually produce beautiful music was an inspiring experience. Specifically, every violin begins as raw timber (see Figure 5), meticulously carved, assembled, and varnished by hand—a process that requires patience, skill, and an intimate understanding of acoustics.

These photos, which I captured using 35mm film, offer a glimpse into the world of a dedicated artisan (see Figure 6). His work may not always make headlines, but it continues to impact musicians and their audiences.

Share the Story

If you found this article interesting, spread the word! Violin-making is an art form that deserves recognition. Indeed, William Piper’s story is a testament to the dedication and skill behind every handcrafted instrument.