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Jansma Violin Shop, Fremont, Michigan 49412 | Phone 231-924-0657
The process of designing a model takes many stages, a process which has
evolved over the past 30 years for Tim Jansma. He studies in depth by making
exact copies of many of the most beloved historic instruments, including
instruments from makers such as Stradivari, the Guarneri family, Goefriller,
the Amatis, Guadagnini, etc. Tim is grateful to all the musicians,
collectors and dealers over the years who have graciously made these
exquisite instruments available to him.
The Work of a Violin Maker
Modification is
equally important in understanding proportion, balance and volume of the
airspace within the belly of an instrument. When Tim designs his models, he
spends months making drawings of outlines, adjusting by fractions of a
millimeter here or there for the sake of function and beauty, all the while
applying his knowledge of proportion and resonance.
Tonewoods used for Jansma Instruments were carefully
selected from Northern Italy and the Balkan Peninsula of southern Europe.
Spruce of particular resonant quality grow in isolated stands on the slopes
of the Italian Alps. Bosnia has had centuries of disciplined logging
practices and growing seasons resulting in maple logs of straight, tight
grain and beautifully flamed figure. The tonal qualities of these
woods have been prized by luthiers for over five centuries.
Varnish research is a lifelong effort for the violin maker. The
selection of resins is numerous, each with their own qualities of clarity,
flexibility and durability lend for the perfect combination of an acoustical
varnish. The resins used in a Jansma varnish are harvested from
regions surrounding the Mediterranean. The varnish applied enhances
the vibrational response of the wood and has a clarity with a golden
luminescent underglow. Jansma instruments blend easily in an orchestra
full of centuries-old instruments. This is due to their finish; deep,
warm and rich - qualities found only when using natural, non-synthetic
materials and applying them with a slow hand application.
