About Me

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I am Eunju Lee, a South Korean female luthier specialising in the making and repair of bowed string instruments, with a particular focus on baroque instruments.

 

My journey in this craft began in 2009 in Seoul, South Korea, where I had the learning from two different workshop of luthiers who had honed their skills in the renowned violin-making schools of Mittenwald, Germany, and Cremona, Italy. This early training ignited my passion for creating and restoring fine string instruments, a passion that has only deepened over the years.

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To further my skills and knowledge, I moved to the United Kingdom, where I trained at the prestigious West Dean College. During my time there, I was generously supported by the Edward James Foundation and the York Consortium for Craft Conservation, both of which played a vital role in my development and allowed me to refine my skills in the craft of lutherie.

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In recognition of my commitment and the high standard of my work, I was also honoured to receive a scholarship from the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust, which provided additional support for my studies and furthered my dedication to the craft.

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I have had the opportunity to work in several distinguished workshops, including the Royal College of Music Museum, where I gained invaluable hands-on experience and deepened my understanding of the ethics and philosophy of musical instrument conservation. This experience has profoundly influenced my approach to instrument making and restoration, emphasising the importance of preserving the historical integrity and playability of each instrument.

I am also a proud member of the British Violin Making Association, the Viola da Gamba Society, and the Galpin Society, associations that allow me to stay connected to a vibrant community of musicians, collectors, and luthiers.

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Before embarking on my career as a luthier, I worked in music promotion, focusing on classical and jazz music in both Seoul and Melbourne, Australia. Music has always been at the heart of my life, and I still enjoy playing violin, viola da gamba, piano, and acoustic guitar. I also played in a band called Eight Quaver, where I performed gospel and popular Korean songs at weddings and church events. With perfect pitch and a deep understanding of music, I approach instrument making with an appreciation for both the technical and artistic aspects of sound creation.

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I exhibit my work annually in London, where I showcase my latest creations. These exhibitions offer me the opportunity to connect with fellow musicians, collectors, and those with a shared appreciation for the art of stringed instruments. Throughout my career, I have continued to be inspired by the support and encouragement I have received, and I remain deeply committed to producing instruments that are both technically superb and a joy to play.

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Every instrument I create, whether newly made or expertly restored, reflects my unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. I look forward to continuing to work with musicians and collectors, providing bespoke instruments that bring music to life in the most beautiful way.​​​​​​​

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Exhibitions:

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·       Victoria and Albert Museum, London: Showcased work as part of the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) 2024.

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·       "The Art of Exceptional" Exhibition: Celebrated the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II at Fortnum & Mason, Piccadilly,           London 2022.​​​

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·       London Early Music Festival 2022: Delivered a Maker's Talk titled "A Collaborative Journey to Personalize the Sound of a            Baroque Violin" with Baroque violinist Taisia Sandeteaia. This panel discussion was accompanied by a performance on the                baroque violin I crafted.

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·       London International Festival of Early Music 2021: Presented a Maker's Talk and Recital featuring a bass viola da gamba              crafted by me, accompanied by a performance of sixteenth and seventeenth-century compositions.

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·       London Early Music Festival: Participated in exhibitions in 2021 and 2022, connecting with a community of musicians and                collectors.

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Media Features:

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·       Gramophone Awards 2024: Invited the prestigious awards ceremony in London, celebrating excellence in classical music.

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·       Sussex Prestige Magazine 2021 Winder: Featured in an article titled "Baroque Passions" by James Tulley, highlighting my              work and journey to becoming a luthier.  

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