Carbon Fiber Instruments

When you think of a violin, you probably picture an elegant, sonorous instrument made from polished wood. But did you know that there are also fine violins made from carbon fiber? That may not sound very promising. After all, the violin is a complex stringed instrument, and every detail matters. How could anyone even hope to achieve a good sound using anything other than wood? Well, as it turns out, carbon fiber violins that sound great are a reality.

Luis and Clark is a company that creates violins, violas, cellos, and basses from carbon fiber. It all began when cello-player Luis Leguia became keenly interested in boating; he observed that the fiberglass boats were lighter and more durable than wooden boats. That gave him an idea: Would a carbon fiber cello perform just as good or better than a traditional cello? He decided to find out.

The very first carbon fiber cello didn't sound very good, although Leguia's wife was astonished when she first heard it. To her, it sounded just like a cello! The second one was a little better, and the third was almost perfect.

Leguia sought help from Steve Clark, a master in carbon fiber products who was also the chairman of Vanguard boats. Together they perfected the instrument, and the result was the Luis & Clark Cello.

Carbon fiber instruments have many advantages. First, they can take a lot more abuse. While traditional string instruments are extremely sensitive to humidity and moisture, you could leave a carbon fiber violin out in the rain and it would still be in fine shape. They are also much easier and cheaper to repair.

And the sound? Amazing clarity and wonderful tone. We may be see more of these instruments in the near future.