Violinmaker Julian Cossmann Cooke is a business supporter of KMFA. He has been building violins, violas, and cellos in Austin for ten years. Julian and his wife, Heather, founded their business to offer his fine, handcrafted instruments to players looking to move up to a higher quality instrument or just to find the improved playability and tonal features that will help them meet their musical goals. We stopped by his workshop to get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into the making of his beautiful instruments and find out more about his love for KMFA.
 

^{Carving the scroll of a violin.}

How long have you been a business sponsor of KMFA?

We began sponsoring KMFA in August of this year.

Why do you choose to support classical music in Austin?

My wife, Heather, and I both play classical music.  We believe it brings the same things to the Austin community that it brings to our relationship—connection, beauty, and spirit.

^{A partially completed viola on the workbench.}

What is your favorite program to listen to on KMFA?

We enjoy From the Top and hearing all of the talented young players across the country that the program brings into our home. We also look forward to Breakfast Blend and Early Music Now for their musical diversity.
 

^{Planing the front of a violin.}

What is one of your all-time favorite pieces of music, composers, or performers, and why?

That's a great question because over time it is natural for our favorites to change. Right now, I can't get enough of the Shostakovich quartets. They are so on point for our times. I first heard a few of them performed by the outstanding Pacifica Quartet and was hooked!

^{An important question!}