Yes, it is true. I make violins too. I began learning about three years ago, have studied a number of professional violin making instruction courses (books and video), plus material on acoustics, etc. About two yearsr ago, I began making violins modeled after one made my Stradivari in 1714 and measured by Herrin-Allen in 1890. This fits well with my Corvair parts remanufacturing because much of violin work is: fitting various wood parts and gluing them together, often having to wait 24 hours for the next operation. It makes a break in the routine and is rewarding when the sound of the violin is good.
	A completed violin requires about 150 hours of labor (once you have aquired the skills and experience necessary). The various woods and fittings for one violin cost about $300. Adding in all the various expenses, I average about $ 1,000 in actual 'out-of pocket' expenses per violin. You can readily see that making violins is a labor of love rather than a high paying profession. Now, after a great deal of learning and research and comparison testing (here a big word of thanks to my Professioal violin tester: Ron Kilde of Salem, Oregon who's considerable skill and good ear have guided my decisions the past year and a half. I could not have developed the current rich tone and power with out his advice and guidance.) I believe I can offer a fine concert capable violin, hand built in the Italian tradition, and at a moderate price.