Violin maker Ryan Soltis

Ryan Soltis has been making violins for a number of years in his small workshop just south of Sandpoint. A single violin takes him several months to make and he uses woods sourced from around the world, then hand carves the entire thing in a process that is both patient and humbling. Each instrument becomes a unique work of art.

Section:Gallery

Thu., Dec. 27, 2018

A viola made by Ryan Soltis is photographed at his home in Sagle, Idaho on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018. He has been making violins for a number of years in his small workshop just south of Sandpoint. A single violin takes him several months to make and he uses woods sourced from around the world, then hand carves the entire thing. His violins cost upwards of $30,000 and are found in some of the most renowned orchestras of the world. He hand delivers them to the artist, who has typically waited over two years for their instrument to be completed. He makes violas and cellos as well.

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Violin maker Ryan Soltis is photographed at his home in Sagle, Idaho holding the very first violin he ever made.

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Violin maker Ryan Soltis works on the neck of a violin at his home in Sagle, Idaho on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018. He has been making violins for a number of years in his small workshop just south of Sandpoint.

Kathy Plonka The Spokesman-Review Buy this photo
The workshop of violin maker Ryan Soltis is photographed at his home in Sagle, Idaho on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018.

Kathy Plonka The Spokesman-Review Buy this photo
Violin maker Ryan Soltis works on the neck of a violin at his home in Sagle, Idaho, on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018.

Kathy Plonka The Spokesman-Review Buy this photo