Paolo Marks builds fine string instruments in Pocahontas County, WV, near the town of Hillsboro. Hillsboro, WV. He earned his string technology degree from Indiana University and spent years apprenticed to master luthiers in Canada, Holland, and the U.S. Paolo’s art is informed by his musicianship as a classical cellist and traditional fiddler. Professional musicians and serious students play his instruments in the NY Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, at folk festivals, and on national tours. Paolo makes instruments in the centuries-old Italian tradition using hand tools, select local and European woods, amber, and linseed oil. His violin shop is part of his home, a century-old farmhouse he shares with his wife and three daughters. Paolo' and his wife are from a family of musicians. They have inflicted the same fate on their children.