This paper will discuss the dilemmas of a maker of violins with regard to three important factors. The first is the selection of wood, where density must be balanced against the resonant frequency required for a piece of a given size. The second is the choice of the degree of arching with regard to the main resonant frequencies for the back and the top. The third is the graduation (thickness as a function of position on the surface). This situation will be compared to the choices available to violin makers in (Golden Period, 1650–1750. There will be a demonstration of period and modern violins.