Biography

 

Anton Somers, born in 1986 in Borgerhout, Belgium, has harbored a profound passion for woodworking since his early childhood. At the age of 15, he crafted his very first musical instrument, laying the foundation for an extraordinary journey ahead. The following year, Anton embarked on a formal education at the renowned Violin Making School of Antwerp, setting his course on a path deeply rooted in craftsmanship and artistry.

 

In 2006, immediately after completing his studies, Anton embarked on a professional journey within a local workshop in Brussels, where he honed his skills until 2011. During this period, Anton made a pivotal decision—to venture forth and establish his very own workshop. This bold move brought him back to his hometown of Melsele, a place with profound personal significance and a vibrant cultural connection.

 


In September 2016, Anton undertook a new challenge by taking on a role as a teacher at the esteemed Violin Making School of Antwerp, known as ILSA. Over a span of five years, he generously imparted his wealth of knowledge and expertise to aspiring violin makers. However, at the close of 2021, Anton made the decision to conclude his teaching tenure, allowing him to wholeheartedly devote himself to the flourishing of his own career.

 

The year 2016 was a pivotal moment in Anton's career when he received the prestigious "Coup du Coeur" award in the violin making competition "Violoncellenseine" held in Paris, dedicated to the art of crafting cellos. This esteemed accolade recognized the exceptional tonal qualities of a cello created by Anton, a distinction bestowed by none other than the renowned cellist Damian Martinez Marco.

 

In 2020, Anton was personally selected by Andy Lim to serve as one of the five supervisors for a noteworthy three-year string sextet project. This ambitious endeavor enlisted the talents of 24 final-year students and recent graduates of violin making, tasked with crafting two violins, two violas, and two cellos. Anton assumed the honor and challenge of supervising the production of two cellos, a testament to his mastery.

 

Anton's craftsmanship reached a zenith in 2021 when he fashioned a string quartet featuring purflings made entirely from CITES certified whalebone. This extraordinary quartet found its place in the pages of the book "Anton Somers Vioolbouwer te Antwerpen ~ 22 Instruments of the Violin Family 2012-2021," published by Darling Publications. The book was unveiled to the world in Brussels in June 2021, showcasing Anton's unwavering dedication to his craft.

 

In the summer of 2022, Anton Somers faced a turning point in his professional journey. Recognizing the limitations of his garden studio in accommodating his burgeoning business, he made the bold decision to relocate his workshop to the historic heart of Antwerp, signaling a new era in his distinguished career.

 

Anton's instruments have earned accolades not only from discerning musicians but also from astute investors who treasure them in their private collections. His unwavering commitment to excellence and his remarkable craftsmanship continue to resonate with those who seek the highest standards in the world of music.