Yesterday was one of those perfect early-fall days that make me want to break out the deck chair, sip on some coffee, and read a good book.  Cool enough to be comfortable, warm enough to sit outside, crisp and sunny.  I did the next best thing…hopped in the car and drove to Cincinnati.  Damon Gray has been making violin-family instruments since 1994.  That all started after he completed his undergraduate in cello performance from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music (CCM).  Damon certainly uses his carefully cultivated playing skills to inform his making…but that’s getting ahead of things.

I was visiting to see the progress he’s making on a cello I commissioned for the shop.  It should be ready by early 2017 and I’m excited to be able to offer it to my clients.  We also took the time to conduct a short video interview so that the prospective buyers can get to know the man behind the cello.  We’ll work on editing it and will release it as soon as possible.  I got to see a viola he is making for the upcoming VSA competition with a stunning maple back.

It is an honor for Encore to represent the work of great modern makers!