With more than forty years of artisanal expertise, Bois d’Harmonie draws upon the history and in‑depth study of Quartet accessories. We guide you in your pursuit of playing comfort, ergonomic balance, and the optimal acoustic performance of your instrument.Avec plus de quarante ans de savoir‑faire artisanal, Bois d’Harmonie s’appuie sur l’histoire et l’étude approfondie des accessoires du Quatuor. Nous vous accompagnons dans la recherche du confort de jeu, de l’ergonomie et de l’optimisation sonore de votre instrument.
History
Established in 1985 by Éric Fouilhé, Bois d’Harmonie has succeeded in preserving and renewing the tradition of crafting accessories for Quartet instruments. By 1995, more than thirty Stradivarius instruments were equipped with our accessories. Today, our creations are recognized and distributed worldwide. They accompany many prestigious historical instruments as well as new instruments crafted by renowned luthiers. Over the years, our accessories have evolved to offer the finest in ergonomics and acoustics. In 2009, Éric Fouilhé chose to devote himself fully to acoustic research dedicated to Quartet accessories and entrusted the leadership of the company to Raphaël Thirion, who had been assisting him since 2003 after four years of study at the NSVM, the Newark School of Violin Making in England.
Team
Five people work within the workshop today: Morgane, Olivier, Théo, Jérôme, and Raphaël. Each contributes specific skills, a keen eye for detail, and a shared commitment to excellence in responding to your needs.
Environment
The workshop is located in Crest, near Valence, in the heart of the Drôme Valley and at the gateway to the Rhône Valley. A land of mountains and light, ideally situated between Lyon (100 km) and Marseille (200 km), this region has long been a centre of fine woodcraft, notably thanks to its proximity to the Vercors. Boxwood (buxus sempervirens), the traditional material for Quartet accessories, thrives particularly well in this environment.
Skills & Expertise Craftsmanship
Our techniques and methods of fabrication evolve continuously in step with advances in research. While our accessories remain shaped through traditional processes, they also benefit from the most recent technical and scientific developments.
Sculpture
Our carved accessories feature the emblematic motifs of the nineteenth century. Crafted primarily in boxwood, but also in ebony, these pieces are shaped using micro‑sculpting techniques suited to the finesse of their details. We can also reproduce or create personalized carvings based on existing pieces, original models, or even photographs, drawings, or stained‑glass designs.
Historical Reproduction
Over time, an original peg or tailpiece may be lost or damaged. Upon request, we can faithfully reproduce these historical components.
Customization
We also create fully customized technical accessories, guiding you through the design and development of your bespoke piece.