Portrait
Kurt Widenhouse is an American violin maker working in North Carolina, and one of the most consistently well-regarded makers in the United States.
He trained at the Violin Making School of America and opened his own workshop in 1989, since when he has made over 275 instruments. He has taken multiple Gold Medals at Violin Society of America competitions. His work has a clean, modern look, with precise craftsmanship rather than heavy antiquing, and he has built a reputation over decades rather than through any single moment.
Renowned artists including Ray Chen and Aaron Rosand have played extensively on his instruments, and his work is familiar to a much wider audience through TwoSet Violin.
Our first Widenhouse violin was worth the wait. The sound is bold and powerful, combining richness, depth and exceptional projection across every register, and the response is immediate, which makes it a natural choice for a soloist or a serious advanced player. It is the sort of instrument that does not need talking up, and given his reputation in the United States we expect to be doing more with him.
Played by
Ray Chen, Aaron Rosand, TwoSet Violin
Elsewhere
Compare instruments against each other, and against an antique, in a blind test with studio audio. No labels until you have chosen.
What did MyLuthier find distinctive about its first Kurt Widenhouse violin?
Our first Kurt Widenhouse violin impressed us with its bold, substantial sound and immediate response. It combined depth and richness with strong projection across the registers. The power was readily available under the bow, making it a particularly interesting instrument for a player seeking a clear, confident solo voice.
Are Kurt Widenhouse violins heavily antiqued?
Kurt Widenhouse’s work is generally associated with a clean, contemporary appearance and precise craftsmanship, rather than heavy antiquing. For players who enjoy the appearance of a new instrument, that can be part of the appeal. We can provide detailed photographs of the finish on any example we offer.
Who plays Kurt Widenhouse instruments?
Ray Chen, Aaron Rosand and TwoSet Violin, alongside professional players internationally.
Where are Kurt Widenhouse instruments made?
In the United States.
