Amanda left the corporate world after 16 years, taking her first steps toward finding a more fulfilling career and developing her most extraordinary life. A passionate violin player, Amanda threw herself into her music, attending practice sessions with other violin players from the Nashville area. She connected with a local instrument maker to discuss making a custom instrument together, and through the work, Amanda found a new calling.

On average, it takes 250 hours, about 56 parts and two unfailing hands to craft a violin. The process involves many hand tools – such as carving knives, chisels, gouges and finger planes – to precisely reduce the thickness of spruce and maple components mere millimeters at a time. Focus and patience are mandatory on the job.

She believes honing her craft and succeeding in her profession serve a greater purpose. “On the surface, I’m building violins. But examining it closer, it’s something more,” says Amanda. “I’m building tables for others to have a seat.”