Melenahe Martin is an artist with formal training as a luthier and fine woodworker. She is a master craftsperson, skilled in the use of hand tools as well as modern power tools. Her main focus is restoration of violin family instruments and high quality set-up work, bringing out the greatest potential in each instrument.

BACKGROUND

Nahe was raised in the ‘70s and ‘80s between Oakland and Berkeley California, and her paternal home in Hawai'i. Her creations are informed by a love of the natural world, appreciation of history and preservation, gentleness, and music.

Her process is steeped in the wild beauty of the Pacific and uniquely rich culture of the San Francisco Bay Area of her childhood. She is gifted in lovingly coaxing beauty from wood, which she reveres as an extraordinary visual and tactile medium.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Unique in today’s world, training as a luthier remains an immersive and all-consuming apprenticeship. Nahe devoted years of training with Master Violin Maker Edward Campbell of Pennsylvania, and emerged a maker of violins, violas, and cellos in 2004.

She spent a decade in the musically rich region of the Northeast repairing and maintaining instruments for classical and folk musicians with Vermont Violins and The Burlington Violin Shop. While in Vermont she maintained her own luthier studio where she was sought by local musicians for the care of their most valuable professional asset.

Nahe’s work as a luthier includes the making of her own violins, violas, and cellos, as well as restoration. She most enjoys extensive repairs. She loves working with classical and folk players alike.

She regularly attends the American Lutherie Institute summer gathering and keeps a healthy connection with colleagues across the country and around the world.