Ian Crawford McWilliams is a Canadian living 80 km west of Berlin in the historical town of Brandenburg an der Havel. He finished his schooling in Vancouver and left for England in 2002 on a path of learning and study.
The first step was three years of studying at West Dean College in the south east of England on the stringed instrument making program. After finishing with distinction he spent 3 years working in London for J.P.Guiviers, specializing in bows.
From here it was a short hop to warmer climates in Montpellier, France to work for Frederic Chaudiere. Looking to prefect the art of modern violin, viola and cello making. Two years of sweltering heat in the south of France was enough, the clock was ticking and Germany was calling.
There was many good reasons to move to Berlin and set up the workshop shortly after in the beautiful town of Brandenburg an der Havel. The town of Brandenburg is a rare gem with history and music around every corner. A perfect place to work and perfect the art of violin making.