For the music still to come.
A familiar fiddle. A cherished violin. An instrument waiting to be played again. Bring it to a repair technician with 40+ years of experience and a lifelong understanding of wood.
Structure, setup and strings work together. Here’s what common repairs address, and why they matter to your instrument.
When the edges come apart.
A gap where the top or back meets the ribs needs a closer look. Changes in humidity and everyday use can loosen these glued joints.
Careful cleaning, alignment and re-gluing with hide glue help restore the joint while respecting the instrument’s construction. Closing an open seam can also address a source of unwanted buzzing.
Small lines deserve careful attention.
A crack is a break in the wood itself. Its location, depth and any earlier repair determine the approach.
Repair can involve aligning and gluing the crack, with internal wooden cleats where needed. The aim is to stabilize the damaged area and preserve as much original wood as possible.
A small piece with a big role.
A leaning, warped or poorly fitted bridge can affect string height and playability. Each bridge must fit the individual instrument.
Assessment helps determine whether adjustment or a replacement is appropriate. A carefully fitted bridge supports the strings and carries their vibration into the body.
Make tuning less of a struggle.
Pegs that slip, stick or no longer fit properly can make tuning frustrating. Worn peg holes may need attention too.
The work may involve refitting or replacing pegs, or bushing worn holes before fitting them again. A sound fit helps the pegs turn smoothly and hold their position.
Care for the instrument’s inner balance.
The small spruce post inside the body connects the top and back. If it shifts or falls, its fit and position need professional assessment.
Sound post work is delicate: fit and placement affect support and response. Peter can assess the post as part of the instrument’s overall setup.
Fresh strings. A fresh start.
Broken, worn or unravelling strings interrupt playing and can leave an instrument feeling tired. Re-stringing replaces a single string or a full set as needed.
It is also a useful opportunity to discuss string choice and have the bridge and tuning setup checked. Tell Peter what you play and how you want the instrument to feel.
Peter also works on these individual parts of an instrument. Wear, damage and previous repairs all shape what is possible. A close assessment helps identify the work needed and whether it makes sense for your fiddle or violin.
Discuss a specific repair ↗A look at instruments and repairs in the workshop, from clamping and alignment to the details of a fitted bridge. Select a photograph for a larger view.
A close view of the bridge and the strings it supports.
Clamps and supports keep the work aligned during a repair.
A centre-line reference marked out on an unstrung instrument.
A view of the saddle recess and detached tailpiece on the bench.
Another instrument supported and clamped for repair work.
Strings, bridge and bow together, with tuning tools close at hand.
You don’t need to know the name of the problem. Tell Peter what you’ve noticed, how the instrument plays, and what you’d like help with.
Meet Peter May ↗Call or email with a description and a few photos. Mention any damage or previous repairs you know about.
An in-person assessment helps establish the instrument’s condition. Ask Peter about the recommended repair, cost and timing.
The workshop is at 15 Palmer Street in Truro. Get in touch before visiting to arrange a suitable time.
Tell Peter about your instrument and what you’ve noticed.
Talk to Peter