Christian Bayon

Luthier

©Christian Bayon

For the love of music

Christian spent years restoring fine stringed instruments
He makes bespoke violins and cellos for international soloists
He loves to hear his instruments played in prestigious concert halls

Christian Bayon became a successful luthier quite by chance. When only 16, he joined the French navy as a technician for fighter planes dreaming of seeing the world. The reality was different and to fight boredom he built a violin using a manual. He ended up making 10 and earning a bursary known as the Bourse de la Vocation in France. With two master luthiers he learnt the art of restoring fine instruments made by the likes of Stradivarius and Guarneri. Years later, inspired by this rich experience, he chose to devote himself to making bespoke instruments for the best international soloists. Based in Lisbon since 1989, they find him and are willing to wait three to four years for their instrument. “I don’t make one kind of violin, viola or cello, I adapt them to the specific need of the musician.”

Interview

Why did you decide to move to Lisbon to make violins?: I was living in Britany with few opportunities to repair quality instruments. Lisbon has an important musical life with three orchestras and receives many high level soloists. I also wanted to live by the sea as I love to sail. It worked out well.
Has the technique of making string instruments evolved?: There have not been any technical revolutions and I use pretty much the same techniques as were used in northern Italy during the 16th century with a few 21st century improvements. I attempt to recreate the superb instruments that passed through my hands as a restorer.
Do you use a specific type of wood?: Typically, wood from spruce, maple and ebony trees. Sometimes, I use more special types like beech wood, pear or walnut. The wood used for violins needs to be at least 50 years old and 30 years old for violas and cellos. I have been stocking wood since 1976.
What is crucial for you to make a personalised instrument?: I need to know the person first. I need to meet them, understand their needs, listen to their music and see them perform live in concerts. Curiously, the profession of a violin maker takes place more in concert halls than in the workshop.

Christian Bayon is a master artisan: he began his career in 1976 and he started teaching in 1984