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Gondwana Musical Instrument Company Pty Ltd
| Formed in 1992 by
engineer David Sugden and businessman Jock Geeves,
Gondwana's objective was to develop a technological
breakthrough in violin design and construction, which
greatly enhanced the tonal qualities and playing ability
of the then currently available student violins.
David had already completed considerable work in conjunction with Dr Jan Sedivka, then Master Musician in Residence at the Tasmanian Conservatorium with standard Chinese–built instruments and his efforts resulted in a marked improvement in tonal qualities. While the technology was successful, great difficulty was experienced in creating a market for it because of the changes in the placement of the F notes and additional vent which was necessary. Many instruments were reworked for satisfied customers, but the cost of the installation of the technology was an inhibiting factor to quantity sales. |
It was decided to
start from scratch and build prototypes of a new design
using plywood for the body and a redesign of the neck and
bridge assembly. This project showed great promise and
the company was expanded, outside capital was raised and
further research and development work was undertaken.
The result of a further five years hard work is the present day `Epoch' violin. Further research is in progress to expand the range of instruments to 1/4, 2/4, and 3/4 size, violas and cellos in various sizes and a research and development grant is being sought to further this program. Epoch instruments are specifically designed for the student market and their robust design, bright colours and ease of playing, coupled with the greatly enhanced tonal qualities make them eminently suitable for the target market. |
David Sugden
| A Bachelor of
Engineering, David Sugden worked for the Public Works
Department of Western Australia before moving to
Tasmania, where he became plant engineer for the
Hydro-Electric Commission.
Since 1967, he has been in private practice, involved in the design and development of heavy machinery, mainly for hard rock tunnelling and mining.
|
He is an
acknowledged international authority in this field and
has been responsible for many new concepts and new types
of machines including the “Mobile Miner”, the
first of which went to Mt Isa in Queensland.
He has been active in many fields including new types of hydraulic trasmissions and marine propulsion systems. David is a keen violinist himself and plays in a string quartette regularly with friends.
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Copyright 2007, Epoch Musical Instruments PO Box 10582 Southport QLD 4215 Australia Ph: +61 7 5532 8445 |
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