Have an Instrument Made for You
Work one-on-one with Master Violin Maker Olaf Grawert to create your ideal instrument.
Why Commission with Olaf?
Master violin maker with 40+ years experience
- Each instrument tailored to your sound, style, and preferences
- Only the finest tonewoods from Italy and Germany
- Direct collaboration and progress updates during the build
- Instruments designed to last generations
The Commissioning Process
1. Finding out about YOU
We begin with a personal conversation about your playing style, tone preferences, and goals.
2. Design & Wood Selection
Olaf hand-selects tonewoods and develops a custom plan for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
3. Build & Setup
Your instrument is hand-crafted and receives Olaf’s renowned Master Setup for optimal tone and playability.
4. Delivery & Final Setup
Your instrument is played in, finely adjusted, and delivered to you fully set up and ready to perform. For clients able to visit the studio, final adjustments are made with you present so the instrument leaves exactly as you want it.
Olaf’s Craftsmanship
Second-generation, German-trained master violin maker with over 40 years of experience
Each commissioned instrument benefits from:
- Personally tested tonal adjustments
- Exacting setup for ease of play
- Premium-grade bridges, pegs, strings and soundpost positioning
- Meticulous acoustic optimisation
What Players Say
My Olaf made Violin is already more sonorous and more responsive than my previous “best Violin” that has been played in for almost 2 years.One outstanding characteristic of the Olaf made Violin is that it is louder to the room than it is to your ear next to the chin-rest.It really projects, and every note sings with a warm, and Honey-like tone.I look forward to playing this Violin every day for the rest of my life.— Mellissa, USA
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to build a commissioned instrument?
Usually between 6 and 12 months, depending on the complexity and Olaf’s current schedule.
2. What does a commissioned instrument cost?
The figure depends on the instrument, the tonewoods selected, the model and the finish. We will talk you through the cost fully before anything is committed. If a commission is not the right fit, Olaf also has finished instruments available across a range of prices, and we are always glad to help you find something that suits.
3. Can I choose the tonewood or style?
Yes — Olaf works closely with each client to choose materials and design suited to your preferences.
4. Do I need to be a professional player?
No — commissions are available to all passionate players seeking an exceptional instrument.
5. Can I commission from overseas?
Yes. Olaf builds for clients around the world, and the discovery conversation and progress updates work just as well online. Shipping is included in the price. You would be responsible only for any duties, taxes, or import charges in your own country, and we suggest checking locally so you know the total landed cost.
6. Can I visit during the build process?
Yes — studio visits can be arranged by appointment for clients wanting to view progress or select varnish finish.
7. Can I hear one of Olaf’s instruments first?
Yes. If you are able to visit the studio, we can arrange for you to play an existing instrument so you know what to expect. Recordings can also be provided.
Don’t want to wait?
A commissioned violin takes time — usually 6 to 12 months — because good work takes time. If you would rather not wait, I usually have finished instruments ready to play in the studio, set up and covering a range of styles and prices. You are very welcome to see what is available now, or to view a recently completed violin with full details and video.
Start Your Commission
Enquire below to begin the process of building your dream violin with Olaf Grawert.
Or get in touch directly to discuss your ideas with Olaf.