Carrie Scoggins, Violin Maker By Appointment Only 7644 S Twin Lake Cir, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121 (801) 943-0496 scogginsviolins.com
How long have you been in Utah?
I first came to Utah in 1987 to attend the Violin Making School of America. I graduated in 1983 then taught at the school for four years before opening a shop near Liberty Park in 1988.
What services does your shop provide, and is there an area that you specialize in?
I focus on new making of violins, violas and cellos. Mainly violas and cellos. I am also available for repair work.
What do you love about the viola, and do you have a particular sound or concept that you are aiming for when you make violas?
I grew up studying the violin but started playing the viola in college and loved its’ deep, rich sound. When I started making violas here in Utah I built a number of them for David Daltons students at BYU. I learned a lot from those instruments and following the players through the years. What I focus on is building an instrument that is even across the register, speaks quickly, has a wide dynamic range, and colour to the voicing. Can you play pianissimo and still have clarity and be heard? A viola that is just loud, without colour to its voicing, is boring to me. A viola that can stand up to chamber music work must have character!
Do you play music yourself, and do you have hobbies or interests away from music and instruments?
Currently I play violin in the Salt Lake Symphony. Outside of my work I love hiking and mountain biking.
Carrie will be bringing two beautiful, new instruments to Viola Day, pictured below!
In addition, she’ll be bringing a large viola made by Michael Scoggins in 2003, measuring in at 17 5/8!