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.

The violin pictured above is made from Royal Paulownia
(with decorative flamed maple veneers on the front).
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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