Bronek Cison Viola

In the twelve years since he first left his native Poland to come to work in the William Harris Lee shop, Bronek Cison has created an exceptional body of work that has seen him firmly established as one of the world’s foremost luthiers.  His instruments, played by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Dallas Symphony, as well as other orchestras and chamber music ensembles around the world, are universally praised for their exceptional tone and projection.

Born the son of a farmer in Krauszow, a small village in Poland, Bronek received his training in the traditional manner, working alongside the master maker Andrzej Bednarski. After ten years of running his own shop in Poland, Bronek was invited to move to Chicago and take up residence at William Harris Lee & Co., alongside the makers Tetsuo Matsuda and William Whedbee.  His continued presence is vital to the tradition of quality instrument making at William Harris Lee & Co, Inc.

Says Bronek about his instruments; “The sound and playability are foremost.  I am always focused on the quality of the sound.  And, if I make any changes in the design or in the way I make an instrument, it is because I believe it will improve the quality of sound.”  Also important is the appearance of the instrument. He goes on to say, “The varnish is to me like a beautiful coat.  Today’s player prefers a light antiquing that gives every one of my instruments its own unique look."