Luthier Erich Schweiger embodies a legacy of master methods and formulas centuries old.  His artistry and award-winning recognition as an instrument maker are uniquely complemented by his status as a violinist.
      During adolescence Erich apprenticed under the expertise of restorer William S. Pinches.  He then found guidance under Hans Nebel and Arnold Bone at the University of New Hampshire Violin and Bow Institute.  Erich then entered the Violin Making School of America in Salt Lake City, Utah, where Peter Paul Prier directed him in the Cremonese methods of violin, viola, cello making, restoration, and instrument/bow identification.  Following these studies, Erich joined Michael Becker Fine Violins, Ltd. in Chicago, and soon became shop foreman. 
     In 1986 Erich opened Schweiger Violins in Seattle, Washington, combining his knowledge and musical ability to make instruments that are exceptional in tone as well as workmanship.  Relocating his shop to Camano Island, Washington in 1996, he continues to make stringed instruments for professional musicians throughout the United States and Canada bearing the Schweiger label.
     Arriving on Camano Island, Erich Schweiger soon began volunteering as a firefighter for Camano Island Fire and Rescue, earning Firefighter 1 certification and becoming an Emergency Medical Technician.  Erich hired on as a career firefighter in 2001, and continues to serve the citizens of Island County to this day.
     Currently, Erich enjoys playing “fiddle” in Camano Island’s own South End String Band.  The band has performed at prestigious venues such as Stanwood/Camano Fair, Lake Steven’s “Music on the Lake Series”, and Tyee Store’s Annual Appreciation Day.  Following the band’s much heralded first album, “Legends In Their Own Minds”, the old-time fiddle group is proud to announce completion of their second compact disc – “Victims of Unbridled Ambition.