September 2026 Featured Instrument

Jeff Manthos Violin

Corvalis, OR

2024

Jeff Manthos is a violin maker, author, and lifelong craftsman. After growing up in a military family and serving in the U.S. Navy, he earned a philosophy degree before discovering his passion for the violin and viola. He graduated from the Violin Making School of America and has spent four decades crafting fine instruments. He is also the author of Steel Beach and Planet Chemo.

In his own words:

“I feel privileged to have found my life’s work in violin making. With inspiration drawn from Brescian, Cremonese, and Venetian makers of the past, I strive to bring something personal and unique to each instrument. I look forward to continuing the tradition in the new century.”

This fabulous violin has a wonderfully robust G string with a sweet and resonant sound throughout its registers.

Jeff is a former member of the American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers, and the Violin Society of America.