Daily Herald Photograph: Viola making

A SKILLED CRAFTSMAN, MJH/T.2. Among the very few violin-makers still working in this country is Mr. William Goldsmith of Great Baddow, near Chelmsford (Essex), Mr. Goldsmith is a musician, as well as a highly skilled craftsman - a combination of these two gifts is essential for producing a high-grade instrument for professional musicians. There are over 70 parts in a violin, which are all held in position with glue, and it takes a month to make a violin before the vital process of varnishing begins. Mr. Goldsmith buys the pine for the front (the sounding board which produces the melody) from Switzerland. Only wood from the side of the pin which faces the sun, is saved for this particular purpose. This skilled craftsman also repairs old and valuable instruments for violinists. Some of his work has been sold in America and on the Continent. PHOTOGRAPH SHOWS: MR. WILLIAM GOLDSMITH at work on the ribs and linings of a Tertis model Viola, which he is making in his workshop at Great Baddow, near Chelmsford (Essex). FOX PHOTOS MAY 29TH. 1954. INDUSTRY - MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS