About

Ryan L Soltis is professional violinmaker with over two decades of experience in creating some of the finest violins, violas, and cellos in the world. He specializes in crafting exquisite instruments that are not only beautiful to behold but also produce a rich, warm, and resonant sound.  

Ryan graduated from the Violin Making School of America in 2000 and worked in the violin making studio of David Folland. In 2004, Ryan was fortunate to meet the renowned maker, Samuel Zygmuntowicz at the Violin Society of America sponsored Oberlin workshop. Through his ongoing collaboration with Zygmuntowicz as his primary mentor and inspiration, Ryan feels fortunate to have developed a finer understanding of how to make instruments that balance clarity and tone. Ryan was accepted as a member of the American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers (AFVBM) in 2010.

Ryan believes that a great violin is not just an instrument but a work of art that reflects the craftsmanship and passion of the maker. Each instrument is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, using only the finest materials to create each instrument. Ryan’s approach is rooted in a deep respect for the rich history and traditions of violin making as well as a desire for innovation. From selecting the perfect wood to carving and shaping every component by hand, Ryan is dedicated to ensuring that every instrument is a work of art that will last for generations. 

His work has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including top honors at prestigious international competitions including the Violin Society of America where he has received a Silver Medal for Tone (2018) and Craftsmanship (2012) and numerous certificates of Merits for his violins and violas. Ryan has participated in the Contemporary Violin And Bow Makers Exhibition at Reed Yeboah violins. He regularly attends workshops to hone his skills and mentor other makers, including the Oberlin workshop.

Ryan is proud to work with musicians, from chamber musicians to professional soloists, and to have his instruments used in performances around the world. He is honored to be a part of the musical journeys of so many talented musicians and to create instruments that inspire and delight musicians and music lovers alike.

After twenty years of living and working in Utah and Idaho, Ryan moved to Nelson, British Columbia to set up his workshop in Canada.  When not at the workbench, Ryan can be found playing outdoors and enjoying the natural beauty of the West Kootenays with his wife and three children.