The violin label states:
"No. 222, Repaired and Devel-
oped by A. W. Van Dorston
September 1908"
Sound sample here
I've since learned that the A.W. Van Dorston did make some new instruments, however he mostly re-voiced and enhanced existing instruments. One could surmize that this being #222 that he has done this to over 200 instruments.
According to the website Amati, the maker only made about 25 violins, but mainly enhanced already made instruments.
Here's the excerpt from Amati's website:
"VAN DORSTEN, Alvin W. Born 1859 Ohio, d.c.1940 Chicago, Illinois USA. Active in Chicago from 1874. Idiosyncratic maker, occupied chiefly with ‘retoning’ old instruments, mainly by regraduating the plates. About 25 violins, 12 violas, and 22 cellos. Various experimental models and distinctive bass bar arrangements. No 17 / A. W. Van Dorston / Maker. Jan: 1911"
New bushings, new pegs, new strings. Has the fiddle bridge that came with it when purchased. It was owned by a previous fiddler. All repairs seem solid and the violin is in great performance ready condition.
This Gem of a violin states it was worked on by A. W. Van Dorston, the violin has a unique bass-bar inside, which appears to be a U shaped or Double Bass bar with extenstion. It also has written inside in pencil reparied in 1928 by a Joseph Lenhart?
The violin / fiddle has a wonderful sound please see sound sample video in the photo section. I was told it would be hard to touch this sound and tone for under $3,000 by a long time fiddler.
We hope you enjoy.
About Catherine our violinist:
Catherine is a classically trained violinist and attended 2 prestigious Universities in Texas. She recently attained her Masters Degree in Music and hold an Orchestra certification. She plays professionally with a popular local music group, she plays in a professional orchestra, as well as teaches violin. She is paid to give her unbiased opinion of each violin - she is your advocate and helps the online buyer reach the best decision if they are unable to purchase locally. Her integrity, as well as mine are on the line and we do the utmost to provide you honest and helpful feedback for your buying decisions.
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We're located in South Fort Worth, Texas USA close to Huguley Hospital.
Thanks, and play on my friends!
