Philips Bert

Article by Erika Glasberg
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17 December 2010

CORNWALL - Bert and Emily Phillips might seem like an ordinary couple but their hidden talents carve through when they showcase their art. Both Bert and Emily have an artistic side to them. They both create fine pieces of work through carving but Bert is the one who began the carving journey. Emily, has a passion for music and ever since she was younger, music has been a part of her life.

When Bert's carving skills are joined with the musical passion from Emily, the sound of a violin playing harmonious melodies fills the room. Years ago, when Emily's sister passed away, she left Emily her violin. At first, Emily wasn't very interested in playing but when she picked up her sister's violin, the music came to her and she hasn't put the instrument down since. "I can't read music, I just play it by ear. I have taken lessons but I drove the professor crazy because I would play (the music) once and then make my own rendition of it," Emily said.

After playing her sister's violin for a while, Emily Suggested that Bert take his carving talents to a new level by trying to make her a violin. Bert accepted the challenge and began to do some research on the Internet and by reading how-to books.

"It Was all a labour of love," Bert Said. Bert began with tracing the patterns and Cutting them Out of maple and spruce Wood. "Everything had to be measured to a certain thickness and then molded for the Sound to be just right," Bert said.

With the varnishing alone taking two to three months to complete (seven coats of varnish are applied), the final product took roughly a year to carve and approximately $1,000 to create.

Emily now takes her violin to seniors homes throughout the area and plays for those who will listen. She has played for the Legion in Long Sault, Parkview Retirement Living, Parisien Manor and Chateau Cornwall Seniors Housing to name a few.

"I play for the fun of it. I just love it and the people love to listen to it," Emily said.