Rich Maxham

I’m the fifth generation in the Maxham family to dedicate my life to the pursuit of making, repairing, restoring, and playing the violin. I grew up watching my grandfather work when I’d visit, and I took lessons in playing from the age of three until I left for college, where I gave solo performances and held the concertmaster position all four years. In addition to my classical training, I spent a lot of time going to barndances and playing in several old time bands.

I cultivated my love of repairing instruments while in college by attending summer workshops at UNH and Oberlin. After graduation from college, I worked as an apprentice for Daniel O. Smith and made my first instruments. From there I went on to work at Potter’s Violins, Day Violins, and the Violin House of Weaver. In 2018 I started my own business, Maxham Violins. I repair, restore, set up, and adjust fine violins and bows.

In the words of my great-great-grandfather, I’ve spent my life in my heart’s work.