Thijs was awarded funds for wood for 2 violins, one based on Carlo Bergonzi, and another a copy of the ‘Plowden’ Guarneri. The award also provides funding for a download of the ‘Plowden Revealed’, a project by maker Jordan Hess in collaboration with violinist Christian Fatu, including over 200 detailed photos of the Plowden violin.
Thijs writes of his award:
I was awarded funds for wood for two violins and ‘The Plowden Revealed’ by Jordan Hess. I eventually decided to use the wood to make 2 late Guarneri del Gesu inspired violins. The benefit was that it helped with consistency and understanding of how to approach a late del Gesu.’The Plowden Revealed’ by Jordan Hess was an invaluable resource of high-quality detailed pictures, which helped a lot in the making and antiquing process. I’m very thankful towards the RAB trust for supporting me and other violin-making students.