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Crafting the Sound of Tradition (Open studio visit)

Crafting the Sound of Tradition (Open studio visit)

  • Thursday 20 August
  • Admission free
  • 12 - 3pm
    Ian Knepper Violins
    Cork City
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Step inside the workshop of two master instrument makers and learn from the luthiers this National Heritage Week.

Presented by Ian Knepper and Macdara Ó Faoláin at Ian’s Cork City studio, this open studio event offers a unique opportunity to meet two highly skilled craftspeople and discover the traditional techniques involved in making and repairing stringed instruments.

Gain an insight into their creative processes and hear how their handcrafted instruments make the journey from the workshop into the world of traditional Irish music.

Whether you're a musician, a craft enthusiast, or simply curious about music, don’t miss this rare chance to experience a living craft and learn more about the instruments that help shape Ireland's rich musical heritage.

The studio will be open between 12 - 3pm and visitors are welcome to pop in during these times.

About the makers
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Originally from the United States, Ian has been living in Ireland since 2007. Ian started out in the violin trade in 2010. He went on to study in the Newark school of violin making in the UK from 2012 to 2015. On returning to Ireland, Ian set up his own workshop on Georges Quay in Cork City.

Ian Knepper makes violins, violas and cellos for both traditional and classical musicians alike. He has instruments currently being played in the Scottish chamber orchestra, Irish chamber orchestra and the Irish National Symphony Orchestra as well as by many professional musicians from a wide range of musical genres. Ian is also an avid fiddler of Appalachian Old Time Music.

Macdara O Faolain 15

Macdara Ó Faoláin is a luthier & musician from Co. Waterford, working and living in East Cork. He built his first instrument for his junior cert, before going on to take work experience with luthiers such as Ian Knepper and Rory Dowling (Taran Guitars). Specialising in the Irish bouzouki, he also makes mandolins and guitars.

How to find us
Ian Knepper Violins, 6 Georges Quay - 3rd floor, T12 Y38A , Cork City, Ireland

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