From Player to Maker
I am a former professional violinist with orchestral experience including the London Symphony and Philharmonia orchestras, Helsingborg Symphony (Sweden), New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and many of the Australian symphony orchestras. I shifted focus 25 years ago into making violins, violas, cellos, and more recently Spanish Classical guitars.
I am passionate about the unique design and sounds of string instruments, and enjoy the unique and varied skills required for their craftsmanship.
Since 2007 I have been the official luthier for the Michael Hill International Violin Competition in New Zealand.
I meticulously handcraft classical guitars in the Spanish tradition. My instruments are ideal for discerning musicians seeking instruments that blend artistry with exceptional sound performance.
I offer concert quality handmade violins, violas and cellos, using traditional techniques acquired over the years. My instruments are appreciated by professionals who value quality workmanship and tonal clarity, projection and warmth.
In addition to making new instruments, I carry out the full range of instrument repairs and restorations, drawing on my background as a professional violinist and luthier. I enjoy seeing instruments returned to their optimal condition, ensuring they retain their unique character and sound quality.
I have a range of high-quality violin, viola and cello bows for sale, from student to professional level.
I am especially fortunate to have a long standing relationship with award-winning Irish bowmaker Gary Leahy whose bows I sell on a regular basis.
Testimonials
“I highly recommend Richard as a luthier. He's done excellent work on my Vuillaume violin with soundpost adjustments, replacing the bridge and raising the fingerboard with a wedge. Richard is also an extremely kind person, and as a performer himself, is finely attuned to the needs of performing musicians”
- Andrew Beer, Concertmaster, Auckland Philharmonia
“I have owned my Richard Panting violin for six years and I absolutely love playing this violin. It is a delight to play with such a beautiful warm tone and it is very responsive. It has outstanding projection and the excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail in the set up makes it such a joy to play. Richard’s understanding of his craft results in an instrument of exceptional quality which any violinist would be proud and happy to own.”
- Charlotte Francis, Tutti Violin, Auckland Philharmonia
“My 2004 Panting violin has a rich, powerful and clear sound- the complexity and depth of the tone have only improved with age. It’s an enormous compliment to have people comment and ask me about this beautiful instrument after they hear it. Put simply - this violin has made me the best player I can be!”
- Osman Ozturk, NZ Doctors Orchestra
"I had an opportunity to perform on a viola made by Richard Panting at the Michael Hill International Violin Competition in 2019. The instrument had a great low register as well as very warm and powerful sound - something I enjoy very much. That performance ensured my semifinals back then!"
- Jevgēnijs Čepoveckis, Inernational Violist
See Richard’s instruments in action.
"I've had the pleasure to perform recitals and chamber music concerts and recordings on a viola made by Richard. It felt immediately very natural to play on the viola, and the warmth of tone and range of colours was great to experience."
Andrew Beer, Concertmaster, Auckland Philharmonia
Want to learn more?
Richard will prepare a proposal that matches your specific performance needs and walk you through every step of the process.
Just get in touch below.