Origins of my version of the Hardanger d'Amore

The 9- and 10-string Hardanger d'Amores (4 or 5 playing strings and 5 sympathetic understrings) that I make are my own version of Salve Håkedal's beautiful Hardanger d'Amore. My instruments began to take shape when Sophie and I were in Ireland in 2024 at the Baltimore Fiddle Fair in County Cork. How could that NOT happen!? Enveloped by the gorgeous landscapes, and inspiring music, it was bound to! 

​In the midst of the happenings of this festival, and as we always do, Sophie and I managed to find our own quiet spots to sit, talk, and play music. On the cliffs surrounding the Baltimore Beacon just outside of town, or a lonely little road on Sherkin Island, I was free to let this idea spin round and around.​

I had already become interested in Salve's instruments and this trip certainly served to turn that germ into a full-blown obsession. Salve has been kind enough to answer many of my questions and allowed me to drive this idea forward. ​I wanted to build an unadorned version of the Hardanger fiddle. An instrument that was simple and spoke for itself. ​​Many thanks to Salve and to Dave Golber for all the advice and encouragement! 

Sherkin Island, County Cork, Ireland

The Baltimore Beacon, County Cork, Ireland