To Commission an Instrument

Throughout history, artists have worked on commission. Andrea Amati's instrument for King Charles IX of France and Stradivari's quintet for Prince Ferdinand dé Medici are famous examples of the legacy of extravagant patrons. Practically speaking, commissioning may be the best way to find an instrument meeting your specific tonal and aesthetic requirements. Many players do so after hearing an example in the hands of colleagues, or playing one themselves. If you haven't yet had a chance to play a Joseph Curtin instrument, one can usually be made available.

The process of commissioning is simple and without risk. First, a conversation with Joseph Curtin lets him know, in detail, what you are looking for. A five-percent down payment then secures the price and a delivery date. The balance is due upon completion of the instrument. Should it prove unsatisfactory in any way, let him know within sixty days and he will provide an instrument that suits you better, or send a full refund within sixty days. While Joseph Curtin has a waiting list for his work, it is at times possible to accommodate clients with particular time constraints.