A customer came into the shop a few weeks ago looking to purchase a new violin for her daughter. During our conversation, she mentioned they also had an older violin that once belonged to her grandfather. She wasn’t sure if it was worth restoring, but she wanted an honest opinion.
After carefully examining the instrument, I shared something we often tell families: sometimes it’s better to restore an older violin for $1,000 than to purchase a new one at the same price. Older instruments often carry character, history, and tonal qualities that are difficult to replicate in newer factory made instruments.
After discussing it with her family, she decided to move forward with restoring her grandfather’s violin and left it in our care. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for them.
Restoration isn’t just about repairing wood or replacing parts. It’s about preserving an instrument’s voice and honoring the story behind it. We’re grateful they trusted us with something so meaningful and can’t wait to see her daughter’s reaction when she plays it for the first time.
This is the final result:
