Earlier this year, Max Zeugner of the New York Philharmonic brought his early 19th Century double bass for restoration. The instrument was built in Florence by Cassini, and among the many things going on, the six piece top had lost much of its arch. Lots of tender care has been given in the restoration. A plaster cast was made, and with breast patches, careful repairs, removal of old problematic repairs, and doubling of the edges, it has come back to what we believe the maker intended.
Unrestored Cassini top left, getting intensive interior work
While the restoration has been going on, we have been making not one, but two copies – faithful interpretations of the original. The two new instruments are made with from the same trees, identical down to the C-extension. With one exception: One is a flat back, one is a round back. They answer the age-old question: what, if any, difference does the type of back make? I should add: The two copies have been with Max for some time, and soon the original will be back in his hands too. Working with professionals like Max Zeugner, and being trusted to do what we do is a great honor.
New flat and round back copies on their way!
Dream about your own Cassini reimagined here or give the workshop a call at: +1 (860) 535-9399
A plaster cast for the top? Take an extra deep dive into the careful process to restore this rare Italian double bass!
