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Statement 

I love to create with my hands.  I feel that being an artisan is my calling, and I am fortunate to be able to earn my living as a bow maker. The bow is a very mysterious object, which provides an endless challenge for the maker.  I approach the challenge of bow making through the medium of rare and beautiful materials, using ancient tools and methods.  I consider it an honor and a privilege to work with these materials and methods and as such it is my responsibility to always do my finest work. When the work is done my bow will begin a new life within a community of dedicated musicians.  These players will then use my bow to express their own creativity.

Training

	I studied bow making with Charles Espey.  Mr. Espey provided me with a strong foundation in the French method of bow making, as well as the history and style of French bows.  Training with him was both rigorous and rewarding and I am very grateful for his generous and committed instruction. Occasionally a door opens into your life and reveals a possibility.  Knowing Charles Espey as a mentor and friend has been pivotal in shaping my life’s work.

Port Townsend

	Port Townsend has become the most dynamic single community of bow makers in the world.  The tradition is flourishing here among a group of makers who enjoy exceptional camaraderie.   Other bow makers who also live or periodically work here are Joe Halligan, Chris Dickson, Matthew Wehling, and David Samuels.

Professional Affiliations 

	International Pernambuco Conservation Initiative, IPCI-USA The IPCI is engaged in an important effort to research, conserve, and propagate the Pernambuco tree in Brazil.  For more information go to www.ipci-usa.org or call 1-866-243-1519 Violin Society of America www.vsa.to