Hannes Jacobs Violins
Mechanical Engineering in Pretoria

“I have been interested in violins from a very young age. It was only during my second year as a student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Stellenbosch that I was able to start formal violin lessons, with which I continued for a period of 7 years. In 2002 I started violinmaking and -repairing on a full time basis, a decision that I have never regretted. Thereafter my engineering career took over, but I gradually started to increase my knowledge of violin making, repairing and restoration.

The following main factors are important in making good sounding instruments: Wood: Good quality wood is very important. Graduation patterns: The thickness patterns of the top and the back are extremely important for resonant instruments with a colourful sound. Optimizing and set up: The natural frequencies of the various components are measured and optimized. Accurate set up is done with regards to the sound post and a good quality bridge and strings to match the characteristics of the instrument. The quality of an instrument's sound can be improved firstly by the correct set-up of the instrument, especially the sound post and bridge, choice of strings and the matching of A0/B0 and tailpiece frequencies. The repairs are normally not visable and the bow is further strengthened.