Varnish restoration

Michael Graham is a professional cellist, performing with the Oakland Symphony, the San Francisco Ballet, among others. He plays this fine cello by modern American maker, Andrew Weinstein.

When an instrument is played this much, it requires attention to keep it in fine working and playing order. This project involved a deep cleaning and restoration of the varnish. Varnish protects the wood of the instrument, and is an important “part” of an instrument. With age, the cello will, without fail, develop spots where the player wears through the varnish, or use delivers little nicks or dings. Repairing these dings and scratches, protecting the wood with new varnish, and cleaning and polishing the instrument to keep it looking it’s best, ensures that it will be able to withstand the decades and even centuries of music making.

Before cleaning.

After cleaning.

After varnish restoration.