Can anyone share any information regarding the bow maker, William Salchow? I'd like to know more about his craftsmanship, methods, etc. I read his biography on his website, but other than that I don't know much about him or his bows. I looked through previous threads but didn't find very much information.
Impeccable reputation, an American master. Sue
Mr. Salchow is one of the most respected American bow makers still living today. Although, I don't believe that he makes too many bows these days, he was one of the only Americans making bows in his early days (1960's). If I remember correctly, he studied bow making in France under Barjonnet, and then went on to establish himself in this country. Today, his shop in NYC includes his son and grandson, specialists in bow making, restoration, and identification.
Mr. Salchow is almost single-handedly responsible for the blossoming of bow-making in this country. He taught many of this country's premiere makers, and his influence as a maker and teacher extends much further. In 2004 at a Federation meeting in Washington, DC, he was honored with a lifetime achievement award. The thing though that brought tears to his eyes was when the audience was asked how many people had been influenced by Mr. Salchow's work--and about two-thirds of the auditorium stood and gave him an ovation. He is certainly regarded as a fine maker.
If you have the opportunity to try one of his bows, do not pass it up.
Josh Henry, Bow Maker & Restorer
www.FineViolinBows.com
Thanks Josh, Adam, I guess you get the picture. Mr. Salchow took the time to critique my first sellable bow at the meeting in D.C. It was a real honor.
Thank you all for your responses. I knew that Mr. Salchow was well-known but I had no idea of his prominence as an American maker.
Bill Salchow is pretty famous. His son Isaac is no slouch either.
"Bill Salchow is pretty famous. His son Isaac is no slouch either."
Actually, Adam--a small correction: Bill's son (that works with him in the shop) is named Steve. Bill's Grandson is Isaac Salchow. As you say though, he is also a very good bow maker.
Josh Henry, Bow Maker & Restorer
www.FineViolinBows.com
Just wondering (if anyone has any input)-- what is the typical price of a Salchow bow? How much does it vary between the three (father, son, grandson)? Does anyone know how much is costs to commission a Salchow bow?
Adam--the best source to answer your questions about Salchow bows is not here, but the Salchow shop itself. They are very friendly and I'm sure that they could answer questions like yours much more accurately than anyone else. Their website is www.salchowbows.com/ and their shop phone number is 212.586.4805.
Josh Henry, Bow Maker & Restorer
www.FineViolinBows.com
Adam, call the shop and ask.
Phone: 212 586-4805
If you get Bill on the phone, be prepared for a skewering sense of humor from a very warm-hearted man. He also might say strange things just for amusement at your reaction. If one has the clout, why be "normal"?
Bill Salchow has been one of the strongest influences toward recognizing traditional French approaches versus modern "machine-age" sterililty.
I happen to love the guy, so take what I say with a grain of salt.
Edit:
Looks like Josh beat me with a recommendation to contact! :-)
when I googled, I got these interesting sites that have info on the Salchow family:
All about Bows & Bow Makers & List of Contemporary Bow Makers
From what I have read, Isaac Salchow (William's grandson) is carrying on the tradition of this family with lots of success.
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February 8, 2009 at 12:21 PM ·
He's one of the "Deans" of our trade.