I've been playing the violin since the age of seven. I was a scholarship student studying with Olga Bloom at Hofstra University, and later with Dr. Anne Yarrow at Molloy College where I received a B.A. in Violin Performance.

My father, Joseph Maday, is a Master Woodworker and Mechanic. Early on he gave me the skills I would need to make my first violin at the age of fifteen. At that time I received generous amounts of advice and guidance from the gifted violin makers Vincent Obrien of New Hyde Park, and William Huggler of Amityville.

For over 20 years I was under the tutelage of the legendary Boatbuilder, Bayman, and Philosopher, Philip A. Simon of Woodmere Bay. His constant reinvention of simple, seemingly improvised, traditional work methods have been applied to just about all aspects of my instrument making career.

I am very thankful for my longtime friendship with Clifford Roberts, the master violin maker of Philadelphia. Over the years he has given me immeasurable amounts of help and encouragement.

I worked with the Kolstein family of Baldwin and then for many years with master violin maker Joseph F. Tripodi of Lynbrook, NY. From Joseph I learned the power of awareness, the confidence to question, and the importance of relentless self-education.

I opened my shop in 1982. I have worked unceasingly since that time on the handmaking of artist class instruments. Most work is performed to custom order. I also try to keep a selection of instruments on hand. Please call for availability of desired model.

All my patterns are developed from the old masters. I use as my example instruments, pieces which are in museum collections and those which are privately owned. Over the years I've refined certain models to account for my own taste and advice considered from past customers.

When a musician orders an instrument from me, we discuss his or her preference for sound, wood selection, varnish coloring, the available types of fittings, and any ornamental work. I do my very best to give complete satisfaction on each order. All instruments are backed by my 30 day return guarantee. This ensures peace of mind while the customer gets acquainted with their new instrument.

Please take a moment to visit the rest of the site. I'll gladly give personal attention to any inquiries. See the About Us page for details on how to contact me.