The upper bout is attached with two allen screws and can be easily
removed.
The upper bout is intended to accurately simulate the feel of the rib
and edges of an
acoustic violin and is used to help players with classical training
find their upper positions
more accurately. Many players with extensive classical training
find it liberating to not
have their hand run into the body in upper position playing and choose
not to select the
upper bout as an option, finding that the freedom of movement
allows for new techniques.
Most traditional fiddlers and players in other styles of music
do not select the upper bout
as an option, but there are exceptions. If a player is uncertain as
to whether or not they
need an upper bout I often suggest that they try playing without one
for a while. Then
if they find it difficult to play in tune in upper positions, they
can have one added later.
The Jordan detachable upper bout is unique in that it accurately
simulates
the feel of the
rib and the top and back edges of the violin, this gives a more
accurate sense of correct
position than the minimal theaded in wires and other minimal
bouts offered by most other
makers.
Royal Paulownia is the lightest wood I use in making my violins.
Native
to Asia, it is the
traditional choice for the soundboards of many traditional asian
stringed
instruments like
the koto of Japan.While very light in weight and wonderfully resonant,
it does not have the
visual appeal of the highly figured woods I often use. So in this
instance,
a beautiful heavily
flamed maple veneer was added to the front of the body. Royal
Paulownia is not as hard
or dense as many of the other woods I use in making violins. While
it is more than durable
enough to make a fine instrument, it is not recommended for instruments
that will see a lot
of rough handling.
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