From love of playing to love of making

Bowed String Instrument Making

Historic Inspiration

For generations luthiers have looked for inspiration to the great Italian traditions in violin making.
Most of my violins have been modelled on and inspired by Guarneri del Gesu and I’ve also made instruments inspired by Stradivari and Guadanini and others. I’ve been fortunate to hear and see many great instruments by these old masters “in the flesh” and take detailed measurements too. It’s fascinating to see the differences between them, and how this might be reflected in their sound.
My violas are also mainly traditionally designed but many contemporary makers, including me, have responded to players’ requests for design modification to enhance the playability of the instruments. You’ll see one example in the video on my homepage, and in some of the photos.
Fine Wood

I have hand-picked all my wood from one of the leading wood merchants in Bubenreuth, Germany. My approach is unapologetically traditional, with finest quality maple for the backs, ribs and scroll and spruce for the belly. I have visited the wood merchant in Germany every few years and now have a large supply of their wood, including one- and two-piece backs.
Elegant Fittings

The finishing touches of the instrument’s appearance are the fittings (pegs, tailpiece and chinrest) and I always ensure that these compliment the overall look and visual appeal of the instrument. The three traditional woods used are rosewood, ebony and boxwood.

See examples of finished instruments below

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 Pilharmonia
"I am lucky enough to have owned a Richard Panting violin for over 20 years. It has been my faithful friend since, travelling with me from Sydney to Paris and then Brussels where it won me my job. I love its resonant luminous sound, its clarity and power. It is incredibly responsive, reliable, even across all strings and easy to play. As it has matured over the years, the sound has become richer and more golden, and the instrument has really come into its own. Thank you Richard for this fabulous violin!"

Marie-Danielle Turner
Co-Leader of 2nd Violins in the Belgian National Orchestra.
I have owned my Richard Panting violin for six years and I absolutely love it. 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. His understanding of his craft results in an instrument of exceptional quality which any violinist would be proud and happy to own.

Charlotte Francis,
Guest 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
[The Violin] is a delight to play, and creates a beautiful tone as it is so well set up.

Liesl
Auckland Violin Student
"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
International Violist

Client Satisfaction

I work with my clients to ensure that the instrument they will have reflects their own preferences as much as possible. For example, some people prefer a one-piece back, others a two-piece back. Some prefer heavily flamed and some less so. Fittings are another way for players to express their preferences. Popular choices are boxwood, rosewood or ebony fittings. Whatever the case, I really enjoy working together with clients to ensure that they will fall in love with their new violin or viola.

Trial periods

I stand by all my work and am proud to offer a longer-than-usual “trial period” for any of my new instruments, with a full refund if I’m not able to make adjustments that address any concerns.

I also offer complimentary adjustments and instrument “health checks” for the first two years for any new instrument, as new instruments do take time to settle and get to know their owners!